Critical Mass is an organization formed by hundreds and thousands of people all across the world who want to make a difference. They believe in challenging societal norms and benefiting the earth while doing so. In the documentary, “We Are Traffic” many of the Critical Mass members criticize our society as being too materialistic. We are constantly worrying about what we need to buy or have in order to be accepted and we are forgetting about the things in life that really matter, like a community. In the documentary someone says that we don’t have a community anymore, “just a place to drive in.” The members of Critical Mass are peacefully protesting against what our society has become and encouraging people too get off their “assphalt” and do something better for the environment, like riding a bike.
I think this group’s tactics perfectly match their purpose. They are benefiting the environment by riding their bikes, and proving to everyone else in the cars that riding a bike isn’t only helpful but its fun! I think this is a wonderful protest and if I ever had the opportunity I would love to join. Anything that gets people together and fights for a common good should never be discouraged.
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But thinking back to the video, not everyone involved in Critical Mass is concerned about the environment. Or, more specifically, about society as too materialistic. Some people just want to ride their bikes. However, do you think that the ethos of the group comes off as unified, even though it's not? Or, because of the way the documentary edits its footage?
I don't think everyone in Critical Mass was there to just make a difference. Some were there just for fun, but I agree that some in Critical Mass were there for a purpose. I also agree with what you said that one of the purposes was benefiting the earth while participating in Critical Mass.
Even though I know a lot of people hate Cindy Sheehan and her tactics, some of her beliefs reflect those of Critical Mass. As you said, many people in Critical Mass were upset about how materialistic our society has become. While they kept their protest easygoing, Cindy Sheehan took hers in a negative direction. It's interesting to see the different approaches people take to make the same point.
Lucy,
I think that you were able to pinpoint one of the main purposes of the protest-materialism. That seems to be one of the most common concerns among the people in the Critical Mass. Also I agree that nothing done with good intentions should be discouraged.
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