Most Influential or a Popularity Contest?
Did you see the edition of Time listing the 100 Most Influential People?
Do you think they put some people on the list just to irk me?
There are five categories of influence:
1. Leaders and Revolutionaries
2. Heroes and Pioneers
3. Scientists and Thinkers
4. Builders and Titans
5. Artists and Entertainers.
In some cases, I am wondering if the selection process included counting up how many times a person appeared on the cover of the tabloids. Are you ready for this…?
Angelina Jolie, lip-luscious, husband stealing, tattoo wearing actress (and I use that last word lightly) is listed in the Hero AND PIONEER list.
I am sorry, but Hero? Are we that hard up for heroes that we have to pick Angelina?
When I was growing up, my female hero was Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross. Now there was a hero. Braving war-torn areas to bring medicine to the soldiers. Crossing over the lines of acceptable female behavior, paving a new path for young women to follow.
Angelina? Okay, I will say that it is admirable that she has chosen to adopt two children. And the awareness she and Brad have brought to areas of the world in need, is also admirable. So bottom line, she has made a lot of money and she is doing her part to give back. Many celebrities could follow her actions. But a hero?
Do I want my 9 year old daughter to look up to someone who tattoos her boyfriend's name on her body? Who carries vials of his blood as a jewelry accessory? Who allegedly pursues, if you believe the tabloids, a married man while away on a business trip (i.e. making a movie)? Call me old fashion, and many will, who has a baby out of wedlock?
Check out the other 99 people being recognized by Time Magazine. You will, in fact, find others who are doing amazing things. Did you know that Bill and Melinda Gates contribute 1/3 of the world's finances for malaria research? Their $43 million grant is making a significant difference in the fight against malaria.
Communications | admin | 22 June 2006 |
