new thread
Hi folks, long hair is often attacked by various employers or institutions because it is considered a sign of independance and any system is afraid of independance. Any system is steering towards unification and control of its elements. One fact alone that we, citiziens of free Western countries discuss it here at the beginning of 21'st century mean that there is something wrong with the freedom in so called "democratic" countries. As for looking for approval regarding wearing long hair is surely sign of weak character (insecurity, fear etc). Wearing long hair can be a useful tool for self-development - it creates sense of independance and freedom. Therefore I think in today's Western world long hair is actually symbol of freedom.
I used to work at Trade Winds resort hotel in St. Pete Florida back in nineties. We were required to wear short hair, uniforms and during that time I started to understand how society works. We were programmed that they "gave us a chance", but because they did so we must cooperate. It took much self confidence out of me and I started to feel like I am in some kond of psychological enslavement. Despite low wages I had thought like where do I go if I leave Tradewinds and what would I do- it was out of fear and insecurity and that institution only helped to be more insecure. This is how the most employers work - but the real enslavement is happening in own mind. Therefore power thoughts are so important. Unfortunately most people have weak and negative thoughts and negative view of themselves. Strong sign of such view is looking for approval considering wearing long hair.
Methinks you protest too much!
On the contrary, it sounds about right
I don't think so. He was merely stating what the reality of the system is. I think he was stating some valid grievances.
You have made some great observations, Huckleberry.
I don't believe these superficial societal "norms" are the result of control for the sake of control. The "norms" just happen to fit perfectly into a profit-driven system that discourages personal well-being. Why? Because well-being doesn't make you a good consumer. And when you are employed by those very corporations, you must create an image that conforms to the standards of the masses to appeal to target consumers.
It's the same reason why politicians are always vague, and are generally clean-cut. It's about appealing to as many as possible, not the actual content of what they're saying or how they express themselves. It's about riding the coat-tails of what is considered "safe" in society.
By nature, corporate culture is top-down rule, not democratic. So you must conform to that top-down rule and accept declining benefits and wages. Staying in that work environment usually isn't because of love for the job, but rather security. Those in debt or with families can be manipulated the most, because they have the most to lose if they don't conform to that system.
I think Huckleberry and SoulSpin are both correct, especially SoulSpin's last sentence. "Family" does not mean just children, it encompases any family member (grandparent, parent, aunt/uncle, sibling, spouse, partner, child) that is dependent on you. And the majority of adults will have one or more family members to take care of in their lifetimes, so they continue in their jobs for the sake of security, continuing the corporate model for another generation. Most of us have been/are/will be part of this system whether we realize it or not, and whether we like it or not.
This is a brilliant, well thought out argument about corporate America, politicians, religions and manipulation of the people committed in the name of keeping those on top powerful by keeping the status-quo way of life thriving. If only more people could figure this all out so precisely in how we've been duped. The pyramid power structure is like Free Masonry. Look at the back of a U.S. $1 bill and it proves that America is not a free country at all but rather a fascist dictatorship hellbent on war, world hegemony and oppression; a nation state directed by the forces and powers of Satan himself. The only one running for President who will break us out from the mold and our current antichrist system is Ron Paul: www.ronpaul2012.com
I can't believe that I did not see this post earlier!
I agree with what both you and SoulSpin have already stated, but imho it's more about selling an "image" to the masses.
you won't see Goth or Metal folks portrayed in a positive light on American TV any more than long haired males, but as I pointed out in a previous post on occasion you will see some Men with what I would refer to as a "shaggy" hairstyle which is not really long, but not closely cropped either.
just out of curiosity are you European?
the reason I ask is because your writing indicates that you are.
if you are how do things differ in your homeland compared to the U.S in regards to acceptance of long hair on Men?
I would definitely like to read more about your adventures as a long haired male and some of your experiences both good and bad as I am sure many of this board would too!