Ghosts of Rwanda

In response to Karen's posting http://karensocialpsych.blogspot.com/
on the Ghosts of Rwanda, I would like to add my comments. Firstly thank you Karen for your posting and in particular for your efforts in providing Carl Wilkens response. It was both insightful and moving. I didn't watch the dvd in the lecture as I was away sick. I watched it this week despite my trepidation as other students were telling me their thoughts on the matter and it made the lead up to watching the documentary somewhat daunting. I remember quite clearly seeing the news in 1994 and the attrocities that took place in Rwanda. I was so alarmed at what I was seeing from afar- my thoughts were how could be happening in this day and age.... I started to watch the dvd in the comfort of the library this week and did so for the next 120 mins. I took notes and held my breath alarmed at the senselessness and the dark side that emerged in the form of human behaviour. Romeo Dallaire the UN Force Commander's words really struck a chord with me, he said "when I met with the leaders of the death squad, I realised I wasn't talking with humans, I was talking with evil". He mentioned the "ethical problems and the negotiation with the devil to save people". One of his colleagues said Dalliare was "bearing witness to Genocide without the means to stop it, abandoned by his own organisation" compelling words. Carl Wilken's said "there was potential for good and potential for evil", the good came through in Captain Mbaye (UN Peacekeeper) who saved so many lives through the Hotel. His courage restored my faith in humanity as did Phillip Galliard of the Red Cross. Galliard was instrumental in not only saving lives but bringing the plight of the Rwandan's to the worlds stage and focusing on their relief aid efforts, providing safe passage for the Red Cross. There are so many stories with so many frustrations and disbelief at the powers that be who were in a position to do something. Monique M the Human Rights Activist upon speaking to a US Congressman was informed "the US has no friends and no interests. In the US there are no interests in Rwanda, no intention of sending young soldiers to come home in coffins, no interest". The people who chose to stay in Rwanda to help the people made a difference single handedly. This makes you look at your own life and contemplate as Mike made reference to in his blog about the choices we make, would you lend your help? http://mikesocialpsychology.blogspot.com/

Which disease? - Graphic health warning quit smoking ad.

Attitude Change - Anti Smoking

What factors determine the success of attitude change programs? The theoretical bases and research evidence about key elements underlying attitude change programs on anti smoking will be the topic for my essay. Here are some thoughts on the topic so far.

According to the Cancer Institute of NSW the anti-tobacco campaigns are aimed at reinforcing quitting behaviours amongst smokers. I would be interested to hear your thoughts on how effective you think these campaigns and other initiatives have been on changing the community's attitude to smoking. The 'You Tube' advertisement featured above was aired on national TV from April 2007 through to June 2007. The focus was on the reality that you can't choose which smoking-caused disease you will actually get if you continue smoking (Cancer Institute NSW). The message is reflective, encouraging the individual to look at their own smoking behaviour challenging their beliefs and attitudes regarding likely health consequences. It is clever and injects humour which hopefully affords the individual the opportunity to look at themself. As of 2 July 2007, government legislation prohibits smoking inside licensed areas. I for one am an advocate for this change, I've noticed a huge difference when you go out these days and you don't inhale second hand smoke nor do you come home with your clothes smelling like a chimney. It is indeed a welcomed change, what are your thoughts on this topic?