Listening to Stephen O’Neill speak both in class and in the webinar a couple weeks ago I was most intrigued by the depth of the issues in Ireland. My pre-conceived notions of Ireland held that it was a relatively unproblematic place. However, it has become clear in my studies that such a place simply does not exist. Every nation and people on Earth experiences hardships and quarrels; whether they be large or small, problems are a universal truth to life. In drawing parallels between the Troubles and the Civil Rights movement it has become clear that division remains the most prominent reason for these problems. This is the concept I have written about in my essay; it seems rather clear to me that the source of humanity’s problems stems almost entirely from self-made divisions that we build. This can be seen in the works we have read this semester. Further, it can be seen today. The Black Lives Matter Movement is still fighting to resolve the discrimination faced by African Americans that is the result of the institution of race and racism.
Another point that has resonated with me from this class is that parallels can be drawn in more places than one would expect. Drawing comparisons and finding meaning within them has provided me deeper critical thinking skills and has driven me to be more thoughtful when it comes to social issues. I feel I have come to a deeper understanding of racial and socioeconomic inequality. And I believe this understanding is invaluable for one to have. While I can certainly say I learned a lot about 1968 and the turmoil of the period, I think this understanding will be my greatest takeaway from the course.