Art by Kris HarperWhen I think of American icons, I think of John Wayne, George Washington and Superman. Two of these are solely American concepts, but Superman could be said to be an international icon for good. He is the "ubermensch" that Nietzsche speaks about, the one who has risen above national borders and become an ideal citizen of the world. We should follow suit. … [Read more...] about American Identity: Evolve Past National Barriers
Perspectives
Let’s Talk about Small Talk
Photo by Matthew Westman“Hey! How’s it going? A bit warm today, isn’t it?” With a string of a few words and a smile, the small talk begins anew. Small talk is not one of my favorite pastimes and I certainly thought I had experienced the worst of it after all those “getting-to-know-you” questions freshman year. You know the ones I’m … [Read more...] about Let’s Talk about Small Talk
Love Yourself
It’s no surprise that issues involving body image have become more prominent for women today. Unrealistic standards of beauty are embraced through media, causing problems of low self-esteem, self-doubt and oftentimes threatening eating disorders. What is often mirrored through culture and reinforced through the media is an ideal standard of thinness. Young women across … [Read more...] about Love Yourself
Women: Stop Apologizing, Be Confident
Art by Christine NelsonI was 4 years old during the 2000 presidential election, and quite fascinated with the concept of becoming a U.S. president. At 4, it doesn’t seem like such an insurmountable task to run a country, as I was perfectly proficient running the country of Beanie Babies in my bedroom. It wasn’t more than two seconds after I told my kindergarten … [Read more...] about Women: Stop Apologizing, Be Confident
Social Media Opens the Door to Racism
Art by Peau PorotesanoPepperdine has a problem. For those who are unaware, last week individuals on campus posted racist remarks on the anonymous confession app Yik Yak. As a university, Pepperdine prides itself on being a welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds. Our university mission statement expresses that our community is strengthened by developing students of … [Read more...] about Social Media Opens the Door to Racism
