Assignment # 7 The German Revolution of 1918-1919

Rosa Luxemburg

The Julius Pamphlet 

Chapter 2 

     
      If it is true that this war is really a fight for national existence, for freedom, if it is true that these priceless possessions can be defended only by the iron tools of murder, if this war is the holy cause of the people, then everything else follows as a matter of course, we must take everything that the war may bring as a part of the bargain. He who desires the purpose must be satisfied with the means. War is methodical, organised, gigantic murder. But in normal human beings this systematic murder is possible only when a state of intoxication has been previously created. This has always been the tried and proven method of those who make war. Bestiality of action must find a commensurate bestiality of thought and senses; the latter must prepare and accompany the former. Thus the Wahre Jacob of August 28, 1914, with its brutal picture of the German thresher, the party papers of Chemnitz, Hamburg, Kiel, Frankfurt, Koburg and others, with their patriotic drive in poetry and prose, were the necessary narcotic for a proletariat that could rescue its existence and its liberty only by plunging the deadly steel into its French and English brothers. These chauvinistic papers are after all a great deal more logical and consistent than those others who attempted to unite hill and valley, war with humanity, murder with brotherly love, the voting for war credits with socialist internationalism.

      Understanding the true meaning of war and whether or not it affects the survival of everyone in close proximity is what Rosa Luxemburg is attempting to achieve. Questioning the outcome and benefits for all involved brings freedom to the forefront. Luxemburg believe certain behavior is required to engage in war; it is smart to think like the opponent but while doing so it becomes vital to outsmart them. She believe if the things we value the most are obtained through war and fighting then so be it; but, as everything that is hoped for will fall in order and its right place after winning. The people must be open and receptive to the mass causalty and the financial disaster that will occur. Whatever is deemed important and analyzed to bring about changes within society is worth fighting for even when the outcome is not what one expects. As seen in the German society war can be dangerous and deadly, it requires detail thinking and reasoning prior to executing the plans. While the optimal goal is winning one must not forget that failure is a possibility. The experience of the Germans should be used as an example for other nations in our current society, unity among all the common people is not possible in a diverse world as ours. Not everyone will be appeased or in agreement of the mission. War affects everyone and everything in nation; finances are depleted, valuables are lost, loved ones are killed, and quite often the outcome is not as expected. 

     In the light of recent events between Egypt and Isreal the effects of war on a nation remains profound. Both nations are fighting to establish ownership over Sinai a state with petrol as it's primary resource. According to the media source, the military is on the defense as it allow the citizens to riot and protest. The military wants to appear as the prototector of the nation while showing the people how influential they can be when the need for them to intervene and maintain peace arise. They also engage in combat with the common citizens which resulted in the people's desire for leaders that are elected by the people for the people through free and fair election. Similarly to Germany the leader of the nation had to renounce his position while the nation is forced to accept full responsibility for the cost of the war. There is gross resentment and separation among the citizens of both nation as finances are depleted, properties are destroyed, and innocent people lives are lost.

Stratford Global Intelligence Dispatch: The Perception War in Egypt_YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?V=KjEOCx3tLc

Assignment # 6 Fritz Lang "The M"

1. What is the author's argument for the success or lack of success for films that deal with these themes?

      Films that depicits sexual torture and horrific criminal activities against young children are sensitive issues that society views as gruesome and unacceptable. Chris Eggersten author of "Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep: A Brief History of Child Murder in Cinema" most films that highlight rape and cruelty to children experience a lack of success due to the involvement of mass media and movie critics, and local protestors.
           
     First, he write that sexual torture in films are not accepted and that they are hard to sell. It is considered a taboo within society as actors, producers, and mainstream public find it hard to digest. Modern day society believe the influence and experiences of an individual can have a lasting effect on their future. I believe child actors could be dangerously influenced by such exposure. It is often documented and noted by many philosophers the detrimental effects of  such experiences.
     
      Secondly, Eggersten writes that the sexual aspects of crime against children are sensitive and touchy subjects for discussion. Local protestors believe violence involving children are graphic and in-humane. As human beings many easily influenced by negative images broadcasted in the media, our culture is liberal but not as Europe where most of these films are aired.
    
      Finally I agree with the limitations on film that depicits violence against innocent children. These films could influence the actions of individuals that are often mentally challenge. Eggersten also believe is difficult for producers and actors to get their message across to viewers when it involves sexual violence against children.

2. Choose two films and analyze how they depict murder in the film and how it relates to M.

   (a)  "Vampire Circus" is a 1972 Hammer Film that depicts a child-killing vampire Count who put a curse on a 19th Century village after he was murdered by the vengeful townspeople. 15 years after his death the curse comes through and a terrible plague begins ravaging the village. Shortly after a travelling circus came to town and served as an extension of the Count’s curse when the circus performers begin murdering the new generation of children. The film is very unusual and it highlights gross nudity and bloody violence. Eggersten believe this film should be viewed as fun and not taken too seriously.


      The gruesome deaths of children in Vampire Circus was very bloody and violent. The bodies of the children were frequently found naked and disturbing. This relates to M as the children could be lured away through incentive and attractions of balloons, comedy, pets or candy. Another interesting aspect is how the police department and the people worked together in comparing and ruling out different evidence while searching for the killers. I believe the circus performers used comdey and tricks to lure children that seems lonley and carefree away. As in M the death of a child in a community often result in chaos and accusation among each other.


     (b) Another greuling film is John Schlesinger's "The Believers." The lead actor in this film is Martin Sheen, he plays the role of a psychiatrist who moves to New York City after the death of his wife. The film is viewed as less controversial and sensitive. Sheen as a psychiatrist who moves to New York City after the death of his wife and got involved in a string of ritualistic child murders afflicting the city. The killers were identified as cult voodoo-worshippers who practice child sacrifice in religious ceremonies. Soon after they began showing interest in Sheen’s son. The film is based on the novel The Religion by Nicholas Conde, and has also influenced the real-life Mexican serial murderers/drug dealers Adolfo Constanzo and Sara Aldrete with their Santeria-based cult practice and human sacrifices in the late `80s.

      The death of the children in The Believers relates to M as all the children were easily lured away and killed. The bloody and gruesome deaths affected the community and produced a sense of insecurity among the people. Sheen became involved in the ritualistic murder of the children when they began showing interest in his son. As a parent he knew it was his responsibility to protect his child from violence been inflicted on him. The Believers also address religion and the influences it can have on some people. The murders have also influenced the real-life Mexican serial murderers/drug dealers Adolfo Constanzo and Sara Aldrete.

3.      The history of media studies have been drastically influenced by events of the past. Kracauer's thesis identifies the unconscious desires and fears of the German middle-class while highlighting their values and morals. Values of the past are often viewed as unimpotant in our modern day society. Films in the past represented social structure and interaction among individuals of different social status. The films were produced in small crowded rooms that signifies unity among the people.
      Pre-Nazi films were known for using shadows, light, and actors that commanded respect because of their appearance. Apppearance was critical in the German society as it signifies status of importance. Knowing that Pre-nazi films involved shadows, lights, and no sound affected how they were interpreted and perceived.
     Like Kracauer I believe the German society relied and became dependent on the authoritarian style of leadership. The country was in a state of economic uncertainity and the people desired for someone to take control, however not in the way Hitler did. A prime example in silent film The "M" is eminent when the first child was lured away and her ballon was seen floating in the air lead to chaos among the citizens. An authoritative figure was needed to establish rules and strategy for finding the killer.
     On the other hand Professor Rath in Blue Angel represented authority, he was respected because appearance and profession. His weakness developed was portrayed in his love for Lola. Another example of a character depicting authority is seen in The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari as he portrayed both a con man and a psychiatrist. He was viewed as an example Hitler's leadership. One individual been in control and enjoying power while others exist in chaos around them.

Assignment # 5 The Blue Angel

Leanorah Smickle


1. "It's All a Swindle" (Alles Schwindel), by Mischa Spoliansky and Marcellus Schiffer (1931)

Papa swindles
Mama swindles
Grandmama's a lying thief
We're perfectly shameless
but we're blameless
after all it's our belief
Nowadays the world is rotten honesty has been forgotten
fall in love but after kissing --
checking your purse to se what's missing
Everyone swindles some
my son's a mooch and so's the pooch


Mischa Spoliansky and Marcellus Schiffer, “Alles Schwindel” (1931). Performed and recorded by Ute Lemper, Berlin Cabaret Songs  (Decca 1996).

Papa schwindelt,
Mama schwindelt,
tut sie auf blob ihren Mund!
Tante Otilie,
und die Familie
und sogar der kleine Hund!
Und besiet man's aus der Nahe:
Jedes Band und jede Ehe
jeder Kub in dern Betriebe
und sogardie grode Liebe!
Und die ganze heut'ge Zeit ja,
sogar die Ehrlichkeit!

     My interpretation of "It's all a Swindle" is a true indication of life in our modern society. It highlight the facts that everyone does what they have to do in order to get by without feeling guilty or expressing remorse about our actions. As individuals we are not totally blameless, we are all responsible for our actions and behavior. Everyone is vulnerable, no-one respects his/her self any more and there is no respectable courting. I believe individual values and beliefs should be our guide in life; however because of the standards and expectations of society all honesty are forgotten and no-one can be trusted not even our own family members.


2. "Night Ghost" (Nachtgespenst), music by Rudolf Nelson, lyrics by Friedrich Hollaender (1930)


When I climb through the window,
I have no interest in taking your jewels,
Only your ivory skin appeals to me.
As a night ghost I don’t take any shiny jewels;
only enough for the return fare.


Rudolf Nelson and Friedrich Hollaender, “Das Nachtgespenst” (1930).

Steig ich durchs Fenster ein, reizt micht kein Edelstein.

Nein, nur dein Elfenbein reizt mich allein.
Ich nehm als Nachtgespenst kein Steuckchen mit, was glaenzt.
Ich brauch wirklich nur das Fahrtgeld retour.

     My interpretation of "Night Ghost" by Rudolf Nelson highlights the actions and behavior of some people as they perform their daily task, whether openly or secretively. It represent the many means used to achieve what we want. Some knowledge are gained from teachers, some from parents and some from friends. As a growing modern day society each individual have their goals and are willing to work towards them. Unfortunately there are occasions when what the other person have or own appears more appealing to the next person and they take the risk of trying to take the other person's property without their permission.


Paragraph 175 : Weimar Society

      Throughout the world there are several documentation on class separation among different groups of people, however the rigid class separation within the German society influenced the beginning of the first world war. Several aristocrats living in Germany viewed themselves superior of the middle and working class citizens as it enabled and preserved their social and monetary status. Ironically the middle and working class viewed themselves superior to factory workers. The middle and working class felt it necessary to protect their status and maintain unity among each other. It is also highlighted how the middle and working class aspired to implement social equality, address gender and different sexual orientation, marrige and divorce laws, and issues of morality. Change among the citizens were faced by many obstacles and remain prominent that continues in our modern day society.
     At the same time the lecture on The Blue Angel address separation among individuals of different classes, importance of values and morals, and survival of the strongest. Professor Rath was viewed as a person of authority mainly because of his profession, however he could also be viewed as a weaker individual because of his weakness for Lola's love; she obviously had something he wanted (her love). Rath looses his job and proposes marriage to Lola who accepted, knowing he would not be able to provide for her and that soon her free spirit and interaction with other men would become problems for Rath. He accepted the position of a clown to be close to Lola, but he soon became subservient to her and appeared as a broken man in behavior and attire. In the end he suffers a mental breakdown, attacks Lola, and is found dead at his old school's desk.
     Another example of superiority was also noted among the students, most of them bullied another student that was viewed as weak and a traitor. These examples of social weakness and inequalities remain prominent in today's society. Individuals that do not confirm to the expectations of society are often ridiculed and attract attention from violent individuals. Most individuals are also judged by their appearance and how they carry themselves. Many conflicts exist within society and different groups of people. Values, beliefs and morals are often debated and are viewed as issues of conflict. The Blue Angel depicts the influence of love and control. It reminds us that issues of the past are still issues of the future; wealthy individuals still view themselves superior to middle class and working individuals. Lola was portrayed as a strong free spirited individual with the right to make decisions for herself and her future.

Primary Sources: Weimar Society/weimar-facinghistory.org
http://weimar.facinghistory.org/content/society 

Assignment # 4 Expressionism: The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari

Quote

"The modern man has become alienated and estranged from himself within consumer-oriented industrial society and called for a rebirth of enlightenment that allows each person to fulfil his needs while maintaining bonds of social fraternity."
Fromm, Erich (1900-1980)

     Erich Fromm was a German born psychoanalyst and social philosopher who explored the interaction between psychology and society with the principles of Sigmund Freud. Fromm believed social problems had major psychological effects on human beigns, but he also believed both psychological and social needs of all individual must be met in order to build a stable and healthy society. Fromm and his ideas were viewed by many as controversial yet influential. He used psychoanalytic techniques to predict and chart the growth of human freedom and self awareness from the middle ages to modern times. Fromm analyzed that changes in society and individual insecurities can often result in totalitarian movements such as Nazism when there is no balance among psychological factors and social needs.
     Modern day society is presently struggling with the imbalance of psychological and social problems. Living in a diverse society of mass culture it is almost impossible to address the psychological and social problems of each group. Some of the psychological and social problems of society include: increased diagnosis of mental illness, increase criminal activities, addiction, social injustice, war, hostility, lack of corporation, social injustice, public health, unemployment, eviornmental pollution, child protection and welfare, abortion, partner violence, divorce, and social injustice.
     At the same time attempting to resolve social and psychological problems among diverse groups in today's society is almost impossible. Cultural practices and beliefs are often influential in the resolution of social and psychological problems; making it difficult for outsiders to intervene, however all desire a healthy and stable enviornment to life in. Social and psychological isssues for each group varies, therefore the issues should be specific and presented in a language they are familiar with.
     Finally, I do believe and agree with Fromm's theory as the imbalance of psychological factors and social issues are seen daily on the streets. The imbalance is exhibited through homelessness, an increase of individuals with mental illness, increase violence, out breaks of protest and war, divorce and custody battles, unemployment, addiction, and social injustice. I believe his predictions about man becoming alienated and estranged from himself will continue as each individual attempt to filfil his needs and maintain a bond of social fraternity.

Glossary of People: Fr http://www.marxists.org/glossary/people/f/r.htm#fromm-erich

The Frankfurt School: http://www.marxists.org/subject/frankfurt-school/


1. How does Dr. Caligari symbolize authority?

Dr. Caligari symbolize's authority through his use of shadow, light, and strange distorted shapes to create a dramatic effect. He represented a foriegn element invading the fair ground and creating chaos. His role was also compared to the kind of leadership Hitler exhibited during his reign.

2. How does the profit motive affect cultural production in the modern age?

The effects of profit motive on cultural production in today's society address the surprise ending of a film, how the messages are transformed, and the fact that the audience receives the message as it was intended. Shadows used in modern day films are now computered generated and are no longer hand painted.

3. Why does Kracauer interpret the film as a choice between tyranny and chaos?

Kracauer was a new generation Marxist member that embraced culture over economy and embraced the desire for a balance of both. Tyranny in Dr. Caligari's film was represented by the con-man and the psychiatrist and was compared to Hitlers leadership. On the other hand the film was viewed as chaotic and represented life in Germany during the 1920's and 1930's.

4. How does the film foreshadow the Nazi regime according to Kracauer?

The film foreshadows the Nazi regime through deception and chaos. The fair ground and the carnival area dates back to medieval times and highlights evil, darkness, and the evasion of a foreign element. The fair ground represents chaos and anarchy, the merry go round is a representation of many working while some are at leisure and relaxing.

5. What is Praxis and how does it relate to cultural criticism?

Praxis is the fusion of theory and practice, it is used to get responses from people and it encourages practical engagement. It represents unity among the opposing forces of technology, culture, and science and was a driving force in history for change among the bourgeoisie and the proletariat (working class). Culture was used to create social change and fight economic struggles in wining higher wages and better living conditions.
      

Assignment # 3 Siddhartha

      "A goal stood before Siddhartha, a single goal: to become empty, empty of thirst, empty of wishing, empty of dreams, empty of joy and sorrow. Dead to himself, not to be a self any more, to find tranquility with an emptied heard, to be open to miracles in unselfish thoughts, that was his goal. Once all of my self was overcome and had died, once every desire and every urge was silent in the heart, then the ultimate part of me had to awake, the innermost of my being, which is no longer my self, the great secret."

Hesse, H. (2009). Siddhartha. http://www.guttenberg.org/files/2500/2500-h/25

     Siddhartha's goal was to find meaning to his life; he desired to be different from his father and the elders in village. He wished for a life of fullfillment, a life of substance, a life of tranquility and a life with warmth and happiness. I believe Siddhartha was seeking completeness through sacrificial cleansing, he wished to experience oneness with his mind, body, and soul. Siddhartha  wanted to learn different ways of coping with
his life and present situation. Learning the true meaning and the values of life was of great significance to him.

   The above passage was chosen as it represent the ideas most members of certain religious practices. I beleive that like Christians, Jews, or Muslims all tends to seek complete oneness with the soul, body, and mind. For christians the ultimate goal is to be forgiven of all sins, to be filled with the holy ghost, and to speak in multiple tongues. Like Siddhartha most christians, achieve the ultimate through sacrificing or spiritual cleansing.

1. Why does Siddhartha leave his father?
Siddhartha leave his father's house to learn his true identity, and to find oneness with his body, soul, and mind. He also wanted to be different from his father and the elders in his village.

2. If Siddhartha never lived with Kamala and the people in the city would he have reached Enlightenment faster?
No, I believe the experience in the village would have limited Siddhartha search to find oneness and achieve enlightenment because of his desire to please his father and the elders. The city provided the opportunity for him to learn and experience new things.

3. What is the significance of the river?
In the river Siddhartha could see a reflection of his-self, the emptiness of his soul, and the problems he faced daily. The river was viewed as an escape route for him.

4. What is the identity of Vasudeva?
Vasudeva initial identity was  that a ferryman, he was a great teacher and a wonderful listener to others. He was a problem solver and a remover of obstacles , but in the end he was viewed as the river  the end to it all or as a God.

5.  Does Siddhartha's search for oneness and unity lead to being politically passive and conservative?
I believe Siddhartha's search for oneless and unity resulted in  political passiveness as he exhibits and resentment about injustice among the lases; conservatively Siddhartha was non-judgemental and believe unity among all could resolve most problems.

Assignment # 2 "Dada Manifesto"

Born: May 6, 1880 in Aschaffenburg, Bavaria

Died: June 15, 1938

Ernst Ludwig Kirchner was a German painter, a print-maker, and one of the key founders and teacher of the expressionist movement. He was a member of the group called the Die Brucke or "The Bridge". He volunteered and fought in the first World War, but was discharged after a mental breakdown. Kirchner was forced to spend the next two years in a mental institution. In 1933 his art work was considered too modern (degenerated) for the Nazi's and this led to the destruction of several of his art work Hitler. Kirchner committed suicide shortly after and died in 1938.  


Expressionism Era:

Expressionism is an art form that allows an artist the freedom to truly express his/her feeling in a paintings that depicts a dreamy, somber mood.

Ernst Ludwig Kirchner (1880-1938)
1. The Red Tower in Halle 1915 -
2. Davos Barszene 1913 - dry point with plate mark on light wove paper
3. Nollendorf Square 1912 - oil on canvas

The Red Tower in Halle

Depicits - a cold winter night.
Genre - city scape
Technique - oil
Material - canvas
Tags - houses, bulidings, gates, and towers
Color - bright red, black, gray,

Meaning - my interpretation of this painting is a cold winter night during a heavy snow storm. The sky is cloudy and there is almost no activity in the town except the trains going back and forth. The chimneys from the houses show heavy thick smoke. The roundabout in the center of town is dark except for its red base. It appears to be the center of the city. The houses are close together and some seems to be attached,  there are no trees for added beautification, and no security officers or guards to provide safety and enforced the laws. 

     Nihilism is noted by the shape and the closeness of the buildings, and the tower in the center of town. Having a railway instead of horses shows that the German society was changing and becoming modernized. The portrait show the culture of the new and uprising German society and the artist ability to express his self and his true feeling. Social conditions portrayed are that of a productive wealthy stable society. The houses are kept warm by a fire place, the town is quiet and desolate at nights no security is necessary to maintain peace or enforce the laws.

Davos Barszene
Technique -dry point with plate mark
Material - light wove paper
Color - black, white

Depicts - deep thought and sharing of information among middle age men and women.

Meaning - my interpretation is that of middle age men and women drinking at a bar/lounge while sharing important information. They all appear to be thinking about events that are occurring around them and the effects it may have on them. Seems like a conversation about politics. All the objects seem focused and in deep thought.

      Nihilism is noted in the body language of the subjects its like they are discussing the effects of their present political conflict, the effects it have on each of them and what may happen if changes are made. I view the objects distorted look and facial expression as one of disgust and political insult to their society and a desire for change. Noted social conditions are those of possible political changes, desire for change in living and working conditions, and relief for the oppressed.

Nollendorf Square

Technique- oil
Genre - city scape
Material - canvas
Tags - buses, houses, buildings,
Colors - yellow, green, blue, black

Depicts - a busy and congested community with working class citizens and family members on a cold day.

Meaning - my interpretation is one of a working class/middle class society composed of adults with children,  it seems as if everyone is minding his or her business with no interest or concern for each other. The people are all dressed in winter attire (hats, coats, scarves, and boots). There is a local transportation system however most the people are seen walking. The buildings are close together and portrays a strong community.

      Nihilism is displayed through the actions of each individual as they move about independently while focusing on themselves and the task at. The movement for change is seen as people try to break away and isolate themselves from each other. There appears to be tension among the people and a lack of value. Social conditions are a crowded community, lack of unity and togetherness, and possibly growing economy with focus on culture and identity (most of the citizens are dressed alike).

artyfactory.com/art.../timelines/modern_art_timeline.htm

     How does one achieve eternal bliss? By saying dada. How does one become famous? By saying dada. with a noble gesture and delicate propriety. Till one goes crazy. Till one loses consciousness. How can one get rid of everything that smacks of journalism, worms, everything nice and right, blinkered, moralistic, euorpeanised, enervated? By saying dada. Dada is the world soul, dada is the pawn shop. Dada is the world's best lily-milk soap. Dada Mr. Rubiner, dada Mr. Korrodi. Dada Mr. Anastasius Lilienstein. In plain language: the hospitality of the Swiss is something to be profoundly appreciated. And in questions of aesthetics the key is quality. 

Dada Manifesto (1916, Hugo Ball) Wikisource, the free online library
http://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Dada__manifesto_(1916).

     Dadaism offer individuals the opportunity to feel free while expressing political like and dislikes in their immediate setting. Saying dada empowers people to voice their meaning of life, experiences, events, and art. Dadaism encourages us to fight for change within society. It provides the true picture of corruption within society. It signifies the strength of a lion, or the will of the fittest. Dadaism is also important as it helps us to look beyond the false picture and promises of politicians and different people we associate with. It provides the true picture of corruption within society. Changes made through dadism are usually forceful; they often defy authorities and their established laws while destroying meaningless culture. Being the best lily-milk soap it is possible for dadaism to cleanse society of its corruption, greed, ugliness, inequalities, prejudices, and all actions deemed unworthy and valueless. Supporters and believers of dadaism believe such changes can increase productivity, economy, education, unity among citizens, and hope for a better tomorrow.

      I believe Hugo Ball is trying to tell us that change can be good; even though he writes that becoming famous or achieving eternal bliss is manifested after one loses consciousness or goes crazy. My interpretation is that the author believes the path to achieving changes are usually disruptive and damaging and quite often they cannot be avoided. He believes persistence will lead to success and positive changes.

     Hugo Ball highlighted that "Dada is the world soul", "Dada is the pawn shop", and "Dada is the world's best lily-milk soap". My reason for choosing the above quote lies in my hope for the future. I view dadaism as a tool that allows everyone the opportunity to be his/her true self. Through this trades or exchanges can be made for a better choice of life or a brighter tomorrow, and it can also aid to rid society of all social, economic, and racial injustice.

      I strongly agree with the chosen quote, as it relates to everything we are presently experiencing within our modern day society. It depicts the political conflict between the elected head of state and the nominated contender. The broken promises, false hope for the future, injustice and feeling of oppression among the people, high inflation, destruction of culture, and a society with no value. Trying to understand Hugo Ball's quote made me realize that life and the desire for changes can be a vicious road, however we have to be diligent in our actions and work hard to achieve what we hope for.   

The despairing.-- Christianity possesses the hunters instinct for all those who can by one mean or another be brought to despair - of which only a portion of mankind is capable. It is constantly on their track, it lies in wait for them. Pascal attempted the experiment of seeing whether, with the aid of the most incisive knowledge, everyone could not be brought to despair: the experiment miscarried, to his twofold despair.
                          Nietzsche's Daybreak,s. 64, R.J. Hollingdale transl.

     My understanding of this quote by Nietzsche explains the idea that as human being each and every individual are prone to experiences that can influence our outlook and life and at times may often influence our future. Avoiding despair and factors that can influence our life is almost impossible; however, knowing that an individual's enviornment and past experiences can affect their life positively or negatively makes me believe the fittest and the strongest can overcome most obstabcles. A strong support system and often faith in a greater being empowers some individual with the ability to overcome despair.                   
   
     A prime example of individuals being brought to despair in today's society can be seen in individuals that often become addicted to controlled substances such crack cocaine, heroine, marijuana, alcohol, and or prescribe narcotics. Despite the efforts of most addict I believe past experiences and first hand knowledge of their euphoric sensation make it easy for them to be brought to despair. Daily the news media broadcast the misfoutunes of controlled substance abusers, only a small portion of this group are capable of overcoming or limiting their despair.     

     German society: as of July 2012 the total estimated population is 81, 305,856 number 16 in the world, this include ethnic groups from Turkey, Greece, Italy, Poland, Russia, Serbo Croatia and Spain. The primary language is German and there is a vast variation in religious preference; 34% are Protestant, 34% Roman Catholic, 3.7% Muslim, and the remaining 28.3% are unaffiliated and classified as other. The capital is Berlin with 3.438 million people living there. Among age group 0-14 males are approximately 5,569,390/females 5,282,245 and 15-64 males are 27,227,487/females 26,617,915 while age 65 and over males are 7,217,163 and females are 9,557,634. The median age for the population is 45.3 years, as of 2012 the population has a growth rate of -0.2% with birth rate of 8.33 births/1,000. The death rate is presently 11.04 deaths/1,000 number 38 in the world. Maternal mortality rate is 7 deaths/100,000 live births while infant death is 3.5 deaths/1,000 live births. Life expectancy for the population is 80.19years The Physician density is 3.531physician/1,000 individual and there are 8.17 hospital beds/1,000. Health expenses are 8.1% of the Gross  Domestic Product (GDP) while education expenditure is 4.5%. The number of adults with HIV/AIDS as of 2009 is 0.1%, 67,000 are presently living with the virus, and there is a documented fewer than 1,000deaths from the disease. Obesity among adults is approximately 12.9% with 1.1% of children less than 5 years older being under weight. The amount of people age 15 and older that can read and write is approximately 99% among male and female. There is a net migration rate of 0.71 migrants/1,000. School life expectancy is an estimated 16 years for both male and female from primary to tertiary school; however unemployment for youths ages 15-24 is 11% number 97 in the world .