Cultural Sociology Term Paper

Cultural Sociology

What Defines Us as a Global Population - our Differences or Similarities?

Analysis of "Imagine" by John Lennon

History is littered with wars and global divisions as a result of Man's search for self-definition. Man's differences appear to drive us apart but it is also conceivable that these differences bring us together. The song "Imagine" by John Lennon speaks of a 'utopia' where there are no differences that can potentially divide Man. However, the song only speaks of the differences that instigate violence and alienation. It is Man's varied cultures, religions, and beliefs that allow for our varied strengths, talents and advancements that bring us together and define us as a species.In the song "Imagine," Lennon refers to a world devoid of heaven and hell, religion, countries, personal possessions, greed and hunger (Lennon, 1995, 1). He sings of a "brother hood of man... living for today" (Lennon, 1995, 2). He believes that these elements in human existence drive a schism through the global population. Lennon feels Man's ambition also plays an adverse role. While Lennon has identified many of the reasons for human conflict, he has also identified elements of an environment known to have generated heroes, leaders, and acts of compassion….....