Blog Post #21 - Cultural Analysis of Horse Racing: How Much Whipping Is Too Much?

For Blog Post #21 I have chosen an article by Pia Catton in the Wall Street Journal. This is to be my sole focus for my project in Module 3. I have analyzed this text for cultural messages following the instructions from our textbook. Below are my detailed answers to some of the questions in Number 5.

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In helping to understand my answers, here is what I believe the thesis of the author is:

• whipping is a recurring problem of perception for horse racing

5. Finally, looking back at these passages, freewrite for a moment about the connection between the cultural keywords, the passages that you have listed, and the thesis.

• How do these keyword help support the argument that the author is making?
• I have noticed the author's use of keywords associated with both the topic of whipping and in where she thinks it should go. Keywords that play upon the cultural values of animal cruelty and animal welfare conjure mental images of pain. The words whip, ugly, strike, sting, abusive and brutal are all involved with the message that the current state of whipping is unacceptable. Other keywords are used when she refers to where she feels the industry should be. Words like encouragement, safety, flagging, reminder and cue. There is another set of keywords she uses to validate and build credibility for the people she has interviewed. This builds an assurance in the mind of the reader to the validity and credibility of the article. Keywords to build this view are Hall of Fame, veteran, champion, animal-rights activist and the names of respected associations in the industry.
• Why might an audience be more likely to support this argument if it is connected to these values?
• The brings authority and validity to the sources she has quoted by using keywords that give the reader the appearance of an expert. When the reader feels that an expert is making the statement they are more apt to believe it is "right". Other keywords are used to add to the negative connotation and build an emotional response against the use of the whip. She then reinforces those feelings with quotes by experts mirroring the opinion. Keywords are then used to guide the reader to a possible solution to issue by softening the tone and ensuring a kindlier more gentle approach. The reader is left with a very distinct impression of what should be done.