Tuesday, August 31, 2004

Theory

This entry was originally posted on 5 February 2004 at 5:29 p.m.

In the sciences--physical and social alike--the purpose of any theory is to tentatively explain some naturally-occurring phenomenon. In this framework, theories are things that are meant to be tested and either accepted or rejected (as in the physical sciences) or accepted to varying degrees (as in the social sciences). To scientists, theories are useful. They present a context by which one can understand something, and the best ones are used as the basis for furthering the field in question.

This is why i don't understand literary theory. It can't be tested. You don't hear professors in English departments exchanging statistical methods, talking about the latest Chi-square test or Pearson's r or ANOVA results for data from Shakespeare's Hamlet. The thought is at once absurd and disturbing.

So how in the hell can they call what they do "literary theory"? Why not call it "critical framework" or something equally--and more appropriately--descriptive? Are they seeking some sort of validation? Or are they just trying to make storytelling a more rarefied pursuit?

And why the hell can't they just let us read?

2 Comments:

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Everyone has days when they are down, worn out, health anxiety and just not feeling all that happy.

That's OK, you need to have days like this, otherwise how would you know when you are happy. You need to have something to contrast your happiness with. What is black without white?

Even though you know that sadness (health anxiety) is a part of life, let's try to make it a small part of life.

With that said, here are a few tips to help you feel better when you are feeling down in the dumps. They are easy to do, easy to practice every day and they work!

1. Stand up straight, sit up straight. When your body is in alignment your energy can flow and when your energy is flowing freely, you can flow.

2. Smile! Yes, just smile. Easy to do and effective.

3. Repeat positive affirmations. Things like "I feel good", "Positive energy flows through my body", "I see the good in all".

4. Listen to some music that you like. It doesn't have to be anything specific, just something you enjoy. Certain types of music work better than others, but experiment and see what works for you. Studies have shown that Classical music and new age music work best.

5. Take some time out for yourself, relax and read a book, do something for yourself.

6. Meditate. Meditation is an excellent habit to develop. It will serve you in all that you do. If you are one who has a hard time sitting still, then try some special meditation CDs that coax your brain into the meditative state. Just search for "Meditation music" on Google or Yahoo and explore.

Our outside work is simply a reflection of our inside world. Remember there is no reality just your perception of it. Use this truth to your advantage. Whenever you are sad, realize that it is all in your mind and you do have the power to change your perception.

These tips will lift you up when you are down, but don't just use them when you are sad or health anxiety . Try and practice them everyday, make them a habit. You will be surprised at how these simple exercises will keep the rainy days away.

On a final note, if you are in a deep depression that you can't seem to shake, please go see a doctor. This is your life and don't take any chances. health anxiety

October 24, 2005 at 2:22 PM  
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