I have been ignorant in recognizing the existing social, political, and economic systems in our society and everyday I am partaking in these systems. I really like Heidi Hartman's feminist, marxist critique of capitalism. It was brilliant that she as able to couple oppression of women and capitalism together in an "Unhappy Marriage." Instead of going along with systems in place, Hartman dares to point out flaws. She questions the very foundation of why do people go along with them in the first place or in Hartman's rendition, why people choose to fill these "empty places". Like Hartman, I want to break away from the norm and live out my own ideology. As society stands now it is merely impossible not play a role in the social, political, and economic systems already in place. So maybe making my own ideology is too radical, but I think the key is being aware and knowledgable that these systems are in place. Only through awareness will we begin to weaken the power and influence of these institutional monsters.

As recommended to me by my mom, there is a really great exhibit at the Skirball Center! The exhibit is called Women Hold Up Half the Sky and it a modern day look into the oppression of women all over the world.

Also I think this song is totally relevant to our discussion on capitalism and breaking away from different ideologies. Plus it is really good so listen (=

Helplessness Blues by The Fleet Foxes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mR8Z-gmK1g