SOCI 324 8,9,10-1 Video Assignment 3

Introduction To 8,9,10-1 Video Assignment 3

This SOCI 324 8,9,10-1 Video Assignment 3 requires a comprehensive analysis of Officer John Ryan from the movie “Crash,” focusing on his complex portrayal as an LAPD officer. Through this character study, you will explore the themes of racial tension, redemption, and the deep-seated biases that influence behavior. This Owlisdom How-To guide of  SOCI 324 Video Assignment 3 will provide detailed instructions on how to address each segment of your analysis, enhancing your understanding of the character and the broader social implications of the film.

Provide a brief general summary of the character and discuss the character’s role throughout the movie.

Character Summary And Role Throughout The Movie

This section of SOCI 324 Video Assignment 3 will discuss Character Summary And Role Throughout The Movie.

1. Begin by outlining Officer Ryan’s character, focusing on his actions, motivations, and the development arc throughout the film.
2. Discuss how Ryan’s actions and challenges contribute to the film’s narrative, emphasizing his controversial and redeeming moments.

Example

Officer John Ryan, portrayed by Matt Dillon, is a complex character in the film “Crash.” As an LAPD police officer, Throughout the film, his actions and attitudes paint a vivid picture of a conflicted individual struggling with personal and professional challenges. The movie opens with Ryan making racially charged comments and performing a humiliating search on Cameron and Christine Thayer, an African American couple, during a traffic stop. This scene sets the stage for his controversial role in the narrative, where he oscillates between reprehensible behavior and moments of redemption.

What stereotypes is the character subjected to?

Stereotypes And Subjectivity

This section of SOCI 324 8,9,10-1 Video Assignment 3 will discuss Stereotypes And Subjectivity.

1. Note the stereotypes Ryan embodies or challenges as a white police officer.
2. Reflect on how these stereotypes affect audience perceptions and character interactions within the film.

Example

Ryan is subjected to several stereotypes. As a white police officer, he is seen both as a protector and as a figure of authority and power. However, his overtly racist actions and attitudes expose him to stereotypes of being a bigoted and corrupt cop. His treatment of African American characters, particularly during the traffic stop, reinforces negative stereotypes about police brutality and racial profiling.

What privileges does the character hold?  How are they able to use those privileges?

Privileges and Usage

This section of SOCI 324 8,9,10-1 Video Assignment 3 will discuss Privileges and Usage.

1. Explore how Ryan’s role as a police officer provides him privileges, such as authority and influence.
2. Consider instances where Ryan uses or abuses his privileges, impacting others’ lives and his own moral journey.

Example

Ryan manipulates situations to his advantage, as seen when he requests a favor from a health insurance employee over the phone and uses his badge to exert influence and control over others. His ability to navigate the system to get what he wants, even if it means abusing his power, highlights the problematic aspects of his privilege.

How does the identity of the characters impact their behaviors and interpersonal interactions throughout the movie?

Impact of Identity on Behavior and Interactions

This section of SOCI 324 8,9,10-1 Video Assignment 3 will discuss the Impact of Identity on Behavior and Interactions.

1. Connect Ryan’s identity as a white male officer to his behavior and decisions.
2. Reflect on how his identity influences his interactions, particularly with characters of other racial backgrounds.

Example

Ryan’s identity as a white male police officer deeply impacts his behavior and interactions. His racial prejudices and sense of authority influence how he perceives and treats people of color. The film illustrates this through his interactions with the Thayers and his treatment of Shaniqua Johnson, the insurance representative. However, his identity also leads to complex interactions, such as when he rescues Christine Thayer from a car accident, showing a capacity for heroism that adds depth to his character.

Discuss your thoughts and feelings about the character.  Does the character represent a group that you hold bias towards?  Please explain.

Personal Thoughts and Feelings About the Character

1. Share your reactions to Ryan’s character, including any mixed feelings about his actions and redemption.
2. Consider if Ryan represents any biases you might hold or challenge you to rethink those biases.

Example

John Ryan is a character that elicits strong emotions, from disdain for his racist behavior to a complicated empathy following his acts of bravery. He does not represent a group I hold bias towards, but his portrayal challenges viewers to consider the complexities of each individual beyond their worst actions. Ryan’s character forces audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about racism, bias, and redemption.

Using the information you gained about neuroscience from the reading assigned in this module, discuss how you feel neuroscience played a role in the behavior and perceptions of the character. 

Role Of Neuroscience In Behavior And Perceptions

This section of SOCI 324 8,9,10-1 Video Assignment 3 will discuss the Role Of Neuroscience In Behavior And Perceptions.

1. Analyze how implicit biases, as understood through neuroscience, might explain Ryan’s subconscious behaviors and attitudes.
2. Relate neuroscience concepts to specific behaviors displayed by Ryan in the movie.

Example

From a neuroscience perspective, Ryan’s behavior and perceptions can be analyzed through the lens of implicit biases that operate subconsciously. Neuroscience suggests that these biases are rooted in the brain’s fundamental mechanism for categorizing information and experiences. These automatic processes can influence decision-making and interpersonal interactions without conscious awareness. Ryan’s actions, particularly his discriminatory practices, can be partially attributed to these ingrained neural pathways that have developed over time through exposure to societal norms and personal experiences.

Finally, discuss your overall thoughts and feelings about the movie.  What new perspectives does this movie provide you with?

Overall Thoughts And Feelings About The Movie

This section of  SOCI 324 8,9,10-1 Video Assignment 3 will discuss Overall Thoughts And Feelings About The Movie.

1. Share your comprehensive thoughts on how “Crash” addresses themes of racism, identity, and human connection.
2. Discuss how the film’s storytelling and character development enhance its thematic expressions.

Example

“Crash” is a powerful film that challenges viewers to reflect on their prejudices and the societal structures that perpetuate racial tensions. It provides new perspectives by interweaving stories of multiple characters, each contributing to a broader dialogue about race, identity, and human connection. The film encourages introspection and empathy, urging viewers to look beyond superficial interactions and consider the deeper human experiences connecting us all.

What is the value of viewing movies such as this in decreasing bias?

Value Of Viewing Movies Like “Crash” In Decreasing Bias

1. Assess how films like “Crash” can serve as tools for social education and bias reduction.
2. Suggest ways in which discussions about such films can encourage broader empathy and understanding among viewers.

Example

Viewing movies such as “Crash” is invaluable in efforts to decrease bias. They foster a greater understanding of diverse perspectives and experiences, serving as catalysts for dialogue and reflection. By exposing viewers to the complexities of identity and bias through relatable narratives, films like “Crash” can promote empathy, awareness, and a willingness to challenge personal prejudices. This cultural exposure is essential in education and can be a transformative tool in combating bias and fostering a more inclusive society.

CLOSING

This SOCI 324 8,9,10-1 Video Assignment 3 detailed analysis of Officer John Ryan from “Crash” not only enhances your understanding of film character development but also encourages a deeper consideration of the societal issues presented. By engaging critically with the movie and reflecting on its impact on personal and societal levels, you gain valuable insights into the complexities of human behavior and social structures. This SOCI 324 Video Assignment 3 underscores the importance of cinema as a powerful medium for exploring and addressing social prejudices and promoting a more inclusive and empathetic society. In the next module of SOCI 324, we will explore the 8,9,10-2 Privilege Assignment.