While reading the three articles, I was reminded of the conversation and discussion we had in class a few weeks ago on the affect of media and business markets on the population and whether or not we, as a population, have a choice on what to eat or watch. These readings were just a confirmation of how there is the ongoing struggle for those who struggle to live and end up bringing detriment to their lives by falling for the tricks, strategies, and business tactics of large corporations who end up making money off of others by directly and indirectly hurting them in the process. However, who is really to blame: the business markets (and their advertising of unhealthy foods and the need for businesses to out compete their competitors and thus hurting the population more) or the population (for falling for these tactics and for not trying hard enough to keep their healthy lifestyle)? Or is it the idea that is communicated to potential migrants in other countries who believe that these lifestyles are a representation of success (once they reach “success” in America), internalize the lifestyle, and end up with the repercussions that come after?

Samantha Chiu