We Are The World 25 for Haiti. Media Meditation #1

I saw this for the first time during the opening ceremony for the 2010 Winter Olympics. This “charity single” is for the benefit of Haiti. In 1985 the original song was written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie in order to raise funds and awareness about the famine in Ethiopia. This remake includes 85 musicians and a couple Oscar winners (Jeff Bridges appears around 5:31 into the clip.)

THE TRIUNE BRAIN:

The reptilian brain is stimulated by the music which is moving in an of itself, but also the images of Haitians reconstructing their country together with the rest of the worlds help.

Also the Neocortex observes the video and understands the importance of the difficulties the Haitians are dealing with. Through this my brain decides what options I have when it comes to doing my part.

MEDIA CONVERGENCE:

I used youtube in order to relocate the clip, which wasn’t very difficult seeing as how the clip has nearly 17.5 million hits since it’s release (and that’s not including the higher quality version.)

EIGHT SHIFTS:

Epistemological shift: This is a song that doesn’t NEED a video but the images that the visual aid projects helps not only engage the audience but also gives them further understanding of the message.

Technological shift: Originally this song was aired on TV but thanks to sites like “youtube” those who missed first airing could easily track the song down. It’s also available through your TV providers “On Demand” feature.

SEVEN PRINCIPLES:

Production Techniques: The video was directed by academy award winning director Paul
Haggis (Million Dollar Baby, Crash.) Which seems a little overkill but the direction is stellar.

Value Message: the clear message here is that the Haitians need the world’s help, so help by donating to the charity.

Emotional Transfer: The video makes the viewer feel sympathetic by making it clear that the Haitians are in a very difficult situation that they need help to cope with.

PERSUASUVE TECHNIQUES:

Symbol: silhouette face with black and red background.



Humor: Jamie Foxx lightens the mood by doing a funny impersonation during part of his contribution.

Testimonial: This film only consists of major recording artists that might appeal to the general public. This way it is easy to please just about every listener.

Group Dynamics: “We are the world” the whole song is about unity and working together for a mutual cause.

THESIS: This video is displaying the need for support of Haitians suffering from the earthquake. They are also suggesting a donation.

Here's the origional version for your viewing pleasure:

State of the Union

TRIUNE BRAIN

The applause that he creates happiness and uplifts my spirits, directly affecting my Limbic brain. The smile on his face makes me smile which I believe is a response of my reptilian brain. The statics, and promises he makes are comprehended by my Neocortex that help me form opinions about how he will help better America.

EIGHT TRENDS

He is pushing for an economic shift. He talks about helping small business because they are as a matter of fact the backbone of America. He also wants to move the tax breaks away from outsourced jobs and towards jobs that are still in the USA.

SEVEN PRINCIPLES

Pacing- he speaks fluently, clearly, and pauses in order to let the information soak in. he also makes sure to stop while people applaud so he doesn’t get drowned out.

29 TECHNIQUES

-NOSTALGIA – using examples from the past where America got through tough times.
-SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE - 1 in 10 Americans still cant find work.
-WARM FUZZIES - Children’s letters asking when mom and dad can go back to work.
-STRENGTH - one woman wrote, we are strained but hopeful struggling but encouraged, this spirit and strength makes me more hopeful for Americas future than ever before.
-BRIBERY- America needs a government that matches their decency and embodies our strength.
-GROUP DYNAMICS- We all hated the bank bailout.
-HUMOR- the bank bailout was about as popular as a root canal.

THESIS: American’s need to set aside their differences in order to move forward and better the lives of the future generations.

THESIS SUPPORTS:
1) He explains that everyone in America is going through the same difficulties.
2) Jobs for Americans must be our focus in 2010.
3) We’re going to use the fines that the banks pay from the bailouts in order to help the small business.