I want to follow up on Jess' blog write-up considering the millionaire's statement that correcting the wrongs of the world is a waste of time. I agree with the fact that this is a completely selfish statement. Can you imagine what the world and society would be like today if every individual had that philosophy? I feel that this philosophy may pertain to those few individuals like the millionaire, who are very well-off financially, and therefore, feel that they can live a happy, prosperous life without worrying about the world at large, or anything that doesn't directly impact them. These individuals have the luxury of living in the safest, cleanest parts of the world, eating the healthiest, most nutritious foods, wearing any articles of clothing they choose, and living day-to-day life as they please. I can see how one could turn their head from the wrongs of the world in this situation. However, it is also these people that could impact the struggling people and societies around the world immensely.

The millionaire's statement can also be proven wrong on various accounts, such as the rights that minority groups, or groups once inferior, now possess. The election of an African-American to be president is a step for African-Americans far beyond where they were in Johnson's time. Also, the rights and responsibilities of women in society are greatly valued through proof of high numbers of women in universities, and the raising income of various jobs women can attain.

I would also like to comment on Jamie's post regarding identity. Johnson suffers with a similar problem of identity that Du Bois talked about in the Souls of Black Folk. I am reminded of this 'double-consciousness' which Du Bois speaks about as hindering the lives of all African-Americans from the moment they are born. Like Johnson experienced, individuals of color must try to adapt to the society around them to be accepted, but yet, also don't want to stray from their true being for this would lead to no advancement for their race or for their well-being.