Born a Crime Chapter 13-17

Chapter 16 pg.207- "I graduated from high school when I was seventeen, and by that point, life at home had become toxic because of my stepfather. I didn't want to be there anymore, and my mom agreed that I should move out. She helped me move to a cheap, roach-infested flat in a building down the road. My plan, insofar as I had one, was to go to university to be a computer programmer, but we couldn't afford the tuition. I needed to make money. The only way I knew how to make money was selling pirated CDs, and one of the best places to sell CDs was in the hood, because that's where the minibus rank was."

I chose this passage because it captures a powerful turning point in Trevor Noah’s life when he steps into adulthood with dreams but no clear path to reach them. It stood out to me because it shows how even someone motivated and talented, like Trevor, can be held back by poverty and a lack of opportunity. He wanted to go to university and become a computer programmer, but because of financial struggles and a toxic home environment, he had to survive on his own in a roach-infested flat and turn to selling pirated CDs to make ends meet. It also raised a question in my mind: How many brilliant minds never get the chance to shine because they’re too busy just trying to survive? Trevor’s experience shows that sometimes, it’s not a lack of ambition or talent that holds people back it’s a lack of resources and support.

Chapter 16 pg. 209- "In the hood, even if you're not a hardcore criminal, crime is in your life in some way or another. There are degrees of it. It's everyone from the mom buying some food that fell off the back of a truck to feed her family, all the way up to the gangs selling military-grade weapons and hardware. The hood made me realize that crime succeeds because crime does the one thing the government doesn't do: crime cares. Crime is grassroots. Crime looks for the young kids who need support and a helping hand. Crime offers internship programs and summer jobs, and opportunities for advancement. Crime gets involved in the community. Crime doesn't discriminate." 

I chose this passage because it completely changed the way I think about crime. Trevor Noah doesn’t just talk about crime as something bad or dangerous he shows it as something that fills a gap left by society. It’s a strange and powerful phrase, and it made me realize that for many people, especially in poor communities, crime isn't always about greed or evil it’s about survival and opportunity. This passage made me picture a world where young people are surrounded by systems that ignore them, schools that fail them, and leaders who don’t listen while crime steps in and offers them a role, a purpose, or even just a way to feed their families. It’s like crime becomes the unofficial social worker or job recruiter when the actual government disappears. That’s heartbreaking and eye-opening at the same time.

In Chapter Thirteen, Trevor gets into serious trouble for selling pirated CDs, which is illegal. When he's caught, the police detain him and his friend. Ironically, Trevor’s light skin, stemming from being mixed-race in a society obsessed with racial classification, ends up working in his favor. The police assume that because he’s lighter-skinned, he’s more respectable or less likely to be a real criminal. His race causes the officers to treat him more leniently than they do his Black friend. This skewed racial perception, rooted in apartheid's lingering effects, protects Trevor from harsher punishment, illustrating how racial bias can unjustly influence outcomes in law enforcement. 

Trevor learns from Andrew, a white friend, how to navigate the digital and economic systems that had been inaccessible to him growing up. Andrew provides not just advice, but tools, like a working computer and knowledge of how to use it to make Trevor’s small CD business more successful. This experience shows Trevor that success isn’t just about knowledge, it’s also about access to tools and resources. Yes, his quote is a powerful critique of bootstrap ideology. It highlights how telling people to help themselves is meaningless if they lack the tools to do so. In societies marked by inequality, simply offering advice without access or support can perpetuate systemic barriers. True empowerment also means addressing those material and structural disadvantages.

I feel like when Trevor says, “Crime is grassroots,” he means that in marginalized communities, crime often arises because it fills a void left by government institutions. In the hood, people turn to crime not out of greed but out of necessity because crime responds to needs, like food, security, or income, in ways that the government fails to. Crime "cares" in the sense that it meets people where they are and provides a sense of support or survival, even if it's destructive in the long term. It’s how neglect and inequality can make illegal systems feel more accessible and responsive than legal ones. 

Blog Deep Dive into Born a Crime Chapters 8-13

Chapter 9 pg. 127: "Trevor, remember a man is not determined by how much he earns. You can still be the man of the house and earn less than your woman. Being a man is not what you have, it's who you are. Being more of a man doesn't mean your woman has to be less than you." The smallest thing could prompt her. I'd walk around the house on the way to my room and say, "Hey, Mom," without glancing up. She'd say, "No, Trevor! You look at me. You acknowledge me. Show me that I exist to you, because the way you treat me is the way you will treat your woman. Women like to be noticed. Come and acknowledge me, and let me know that you see me. Don't just see me when you need something." 

I chose this passage because it highlights a powerful moment of learning and growth for Trevor Noah, not just about himself but about relationships, respect, and how men and women should treat each other. It stands out to me because it’s a simple yet powerful lesson in acknowledging and respecting others, especially women. His mother’s wisdom here is about more than just politeness; it’s about the way you show value to someone through your actions, not just words. What really stood out to me was the line, “Being a man is not what you have, it’s who you are.” This resonates deeply because in a society where men are often defined by their success or material wealth, this is a reminder that masculinity isn’t tied to what you possess, but to your character and actions. It makes me reflect on how society often measures success, and how that can impact the way we perceive ourselves and each other. The passage also struck me because it’s so relatable in terms of relationships. The idea that women like to be acknowledged, to be seen, is something I think many can relate to in their own lives, whether it’s in a romantic relationship or in familial relationships. How many times do we walk past someone, caught up in our own world, and forget the importance of that small gesture of acknowledging them? In a way, it seems to speak to the larger dynamics of respect and attention in relationships. It raises a few questions for me, too, how much do we, as individuals, take the time to truly see others in our lives? How often do we overlook small but important acts of acknowledgment? And how can we shift our behaviors to treat people with more genuine respect and consideration? This passage emphasizes the importance of presence and respect in human interactions. It’s a powerful reminder that simple actions, like making eye contact or acknowledging someone, can have a profound impact on relationships. I’d love to explore how different cultures teach these values and how they show up in different relationships, whether it’s between parents and children, partners, or even strangers.

Chapter 12 pg. 146: "Being poor didn't help. Not only could I not afford a decent haircut, leaving me with a huge, unruly Afro, but my mother also used to get angry at the fact that I grew out of my school uniforms too fast, so to save money, she started buying my clothes three sizes too big. My blazer was too long and my pants were too baggy, and my shoes flopped around. I was a clown. And of course, Murphy's Law, the year my mom started buying my clothes too big was the year that I stopped growing. So now I was never going to grow into my clown clothes, and I was stuck being a clown. The only thing I had going was the fact that I was tall, but even there, I was gangly and awkward-looking. Duck feet. High ass. Nothing worked." 

I chose this passage because it is such a vivid and relatable depiction of growing up feeling awkward and out of place. Trevor Noah’s self-deprecating humor shines through, but it’s also a glimpse into the painful reality of how external factors, like being poor and growing up too quickly, can deeply affect self-image during childhood. The line “I was a clown” really struck me because it shows how, as children, we can internalize things about ourselves that others might not even notice, but they shape how we view the world and ourselves. The passage made me reflect on how much we take for granted in our own lives, how, as children, we may not have had to worry about clothes being too big or feeling different in ways that marked us. It raises a question, I think a lot of people could relate to: how often do we feel that our appearance or circumstances define us? How many times do we let something like "clown clothes" become part of our internal dialogue about ourselves, even when it's not really a reflection of who we are or how we’re seen by others? This experience of growing up, feeling out of place, and trying to find your identity in a world that judges you for things you can't control. It’s a painful yet humorous reminder that what often feels like our defining moments are simply chapters in a much larger story.

“Don’t ever forget: He chose you” (Noah 108), Trevor learns in chapter eight. What else does he learn about his father in this chapter? 

In chapter eight, Trevor begins to understand his father's role in his life. He learns that despite the tumultuous and often disconnected relationship they have, his father chose to be in his life, despite the societal obstacles of apartheid. Trevor reflects on the complexity of their relationship, recognizing that his father, a white man, chose to be a part of Trevor's life even though their relationship was not easy, and society disapproved of it. In addition, he comes to see that his father is more than just a biological figure; he is a person who made a deliberate decision to be part of Trevor’s world, even though he didn't fulfill all the typical expectations of a father figure. This was an eye-opening realization for Trevor and shaped his view on love, family, and personal responsibility.

“That’s what apartheid did: It convinced every group that it was because of the other race that they didn’t get into the club” (Noah 120) writes in chapter nine. What are some examples of how the government convinced other races to hate each other and how arbitrary it was to decide who was white and who was colored? “But I knew I’d done a terrible thing” (Noah 125) writes later in the chapter. What happened?

Apartheid was a deeply divisive system, and it created an artificial sense of superiority and inferiority among different racial groups. The government of South Africa worked hard to convince each group, whether it was black, white, or colored, that they were in competition with the other groups for access to resources and opportunities. They promoted racial segregation by keeping different races apart, creating false narratives that one group was inferior to the others. The classification of who was considered "white" or "colored" was arbitrary, and it often depended on appearance or arbitrary categories set by the government. For example, the so-called "colored" group was comprised of people with mixed racial backgrounds, but even they were treated differently depending on whether they appeared more "European" or more "African." These divisions fueled hatred and resentment, and the arbitrary nature of the classifications left people feeling powerless and confused. Trevor reflects on a time when he did something he regretted deeply: he stole something, and he understood the gravity of his actions afterward. This moment is pivotal because it showcases his growing awareness of right and wrong, and his recognition that sometimes the consequences of actions are far-reaching. Trevor's self-awareness and his ability to take responsibility for his mistakes demonstrate his maturity and growth as a person. In the context of his life in apartheid South Africa, these actions are complicated by the societal constraints and pressures he faces.

In chapter thirteen, Trevor Noah is nearly arrested and expelled for shoplifting. What ironic twist of fate saves him from getting into serious trouble? 

In chapter thirteen, Trevor finds himself on the brink of being arrested for shoplifting. Ironically, he is saved from serious trouble when the police officer who catches him happens to recognize him and realizes that Trevor is the son of a well-known, influential figure. The officer decides not to pursue the matter further, and this twist of fate keeps Trevor out of more severe consequences. This event highlights the arbitrary nature of authority and privilege, where some people’s actions are ignored or forgiven based on their connections or status.

“But I’m consumed with regret for the things I didn’t do, the choices I didn’t make, the things I didn’t say. We spend so much time being afraid of failure, afraid of rejection, but regret is the thing we should fear most” (Noah 143). How do you relate to this quote? 

This quote resonates deeply with the universal human experience of regret. Often, people focus on the fear of failure, rejection, or making mistakes, but Trevor's reflection suggests that it's the missed opportunities, the things we didn't try, or the risks we didn't take that we will ultimately regret. I can relate to this sentiment in my own life, where there have been moments when I hesitated to act, whether it was about speaking up or taking a leap of faith, and later, I wished I had been braver. The fear of failure can paralyze us, but the fear of regret can be even more powerful. This is a reminder to seize opportunities, make decisions with courage, and embrace the uncertainty that comes with growth.

Blog Reading Journal for Born a Crime

In the video, Trevor Noah discusses how smartphones have fundamentally changed human behavior, from how we interact with the world to how we communicate with others. He emphasizes the idea that smartphones have made us both connected and isolated at the same time. People now have the world at their fingertips, but this constant access to information and social media can also make us more distant, as we focus more on our screens than on our immediate surroundings. I agree with Noah’s point about how smartphones, while incredibly useful, also create a paradoxical sense of disconnect. They provide instant communication but often hinder face-to-face interactions, making us less present with the people physically around us.

In chapter 6, Noah describes his relationship with his mother as akin to the dynamic between a cop and a criminal. This analogy captures the tension in their relationship, as his mother was determined to raise him with discipline and love, while he, as a child, often tried to find ways to outsmart her. Some notable events in the chapter that illustrate this are when he would lie to her about his activities, or when he tried to hide his misbehavior (like skipping school or stealing). His mother’s relentless pursuit of guiding him is evident, and this back-and-forth tension highlights the strong, if sometimes combative, bond between them.

In chapter 7, Noah discusses his experiences with pets, particularly Fufi the dog and Panther the cat. He reflects on how they had an independent spirit and how, despite their domestication, they still lived their lives on their terms. Noah’s lesson here is about ownership and attachment: you can love something, but you don’t truly own it. This concept can extend beyond pets, reflecting the idea that love and control are often separate. From my own experience with pets, I’ve learned similar lessons. For instance, I’ve had cats who were fiercely independent, and no matter how much I cared for them, they always had their own will and behavior. This is a reminder that relationships, whether with pets or people, are not about control but about mutual respect and love.

Chapter 6: pg 80. “My Relationship with my mom was like the relationship between a cop and a criminal in the movies- the relentless detective and the devious mastermind she's determined to catch. theyre bitter rivals, but, damn, they respect the hell out of each other, and somehow they even grow to like each other."

This quote reflects the cat-and-mouse dynamic Noah experienced with his mother. Despite his efforts to outsmart her, she always found a way to keep him in check, which, in hindsight, Noah realizes was for his own good.

Chapter 7, Pg 100. “I believed that Fufi was my dog, but of course that wasn't true. Fufi was a dog. I was a boy. We got along well. She happened to live in my house. That experience shaped what I've felt about relationships for the rest of my life: You do not own the thing that you love. I was lucky to learn that lesson at such a young age.”

This is a profound statement about the nature of love and ownership, especially when it comes to relationships, both with animals and people. It challenges the idea of possession and emphasizes the need for respect and acceptance of autonomy in others, even pets.

Blog Journal for Born a Crime

Chapter 4 Page 54: "As a kid, I understood that people were different colors, but in my head, white and black, and brown were like types of chocolate. Dad was the white chocolate, Mom was the dark chocolate, and it was the milk chocolate. But we were all just chocolate. I didn't know any of it had any of it had to do with race. I didn't know what race was. My mother never referred to my dad as white or to me as mixed. So when the kids in Soweto called me white, even though I was light brown, I just thought they had their colors mixed up, like they hadn't learnt them properly, "Ah yes, my friend. You've confused aqua with turquoise. I can see how you made that mistake. You're not the first." 

At its core, this passage reflects how Trevor’s early understanding of identity was shaped more by love and family than by societal labels. By comparing skin tones to different kinds of chocolate, “white chocolate,” “dark chocolate,” and “milk chocolate,” he uses a childlike metaphor that emphasizes unity over division. In his eyes, everyone was simply "chocolate," a delicious, familiar, and neutral comparison that shows how race was irrelevant to his personal identity at the time. The humor in the paragraph, especially his imaginary correction of the Soweto kids who called him white, demonstrates Noah’s signature comedic voice, which he often uses to explore serious topics like racism and identity in a more approachable way. His response, “Ah yes, my friend. You've confused aqua with turquoise…” illustrates how absurd and arbitrary racial distinctions seemed to him as a child. It’s not that he denied being different in appearance it’s that he hadn’t yet been taught to associate those differences with hierarchy or exclusion. This moment also subtly critiques the way society teaches racial categories, suggesting that these concepts are learned rather than innate. Trevor’s mother, who never labeled his father as white or him as mixed, deliberately avoided instilling racial bias or division, reinforcing the idea that children learn racism from the world around them, not from within.

Chapter 5 Page 69: "Eden Park was a colored neighborhood adjacent to several black townships on the East Rand. Half colored and half black, she figured, like us. We'd be camouflaged there. It didn't work out that way; we never fit after all. But that was her thinking when we made the move. Plus, it was the chance to buy a home, our own home. Eden Park was one of those "suburbs" that are actually out on the edge of civilization, the kind of place where property developers have said, "Hey, poor people. You can live the good life, too. Here's a house. In the middle of nowhere. But look, you have a yard!' For some reason, the streets in Eden Park were named after the Jaguar Street. Ferrari Stret. Honda Street. I don't know if it was a coincidence or not, but it's funny because colored people in South Africa are known for loving fancy cars. It was like living in a white neighborhood with all the streets named after varietals of fine wine." 

This paragraph from Born a Crime offers insight into Trevor Noah’s experiences with place, identity, and socioeconomic illusions in South Africa. Through his character, Noah unpacks the deeper ironies of social mobility and racial identity in a country still deeply shaped by segregation. At first, Eden Park seems like a logical choice for Trevor’s mother, a neighborhood that’s “half colored and half black,” potentially offering a place where their mixed family could "camouflage." This word choice reflects her hope for belonging and safety through blending in. But the reality, as Trevor notes, was different; they “never fit after all.” This reveals how even within marginalized communities, there are still divisions and hierarchies tied to race and identity. Noah also critiques the illusion of opportunity sold to poor people in South Africa. He highlights the superficial appeal of "owning a home" in Eden Park, a suburb that promised a better life but was located "in the middle of nowhere." His sarcastic comment, "But look, you have a yard! reveals how the promise of upward mobility often masks the lack of real infrastructure or inclusion. In essence, this passage critiques the systems that sell hope while maintaining inequality, and it captures how race, class, and aspiration intersect in everyday life. Noah’s humor doesn’t undercut the seriousness of his message it sharpens it, making the critique both accessible and poignant.

The animal that most frightens me is a frog. I can't stand the sight of it near me. If I were to have a close-up experience with it, I would most likely have a panic attack. Ever since I was young, I've had bad experiences with frogs and have developed this fear stemming from the fact that my mother also had this fear of frogs as well which made me fear them. 

In Chapter Four of Born a Crime, Trevor Noah emphasizes the power of language in shaping identity and social perception. He states, "language, even more than color, defines who you are to people" (p. 56). This insight stems from his experiences in apartheid-era South Africa, where racial divisions were stark. Trevor found that speaking the local language allowed him to connect with different communities, often overriding racial prejudices. For instance, when he spoke Zulu to a group of men who initially saw him as an outsider, their perception changed, and they accepted him as one of their own. This adaptability led Trevor to describe himself as a "chameleon," someone who could navigate various social landscapes by blending in linguistically and culturally, despite his mixed-race background. 

In Chapter Five, Trevor discusses the concept of the "black tax," which his mother describes as the burden placed on Black individuals to support their families financially, often hindering their own progress. He explains, "Because the generations who came before you have been pillaged, rather than being free to use your skills and education to move forward, you lose everything just trying to bring everyone behind you back up to zero" (p. 66).

Despite these challenges, Trevor's mother instilled in him a sense of resilience and optimism. She advised him not to let past traumas define his future, emphasizing the importance of moving forward and embracing new experiences. Trevor reflects on this mindset, stating, "I remember the thing that caused the trauma, but I don't hold on to the trauma. I never let the memory of something painful prevent me from trying something new" (p. 90). 

Furthermore, Trevor notes that while they lived modestly, they were "rich in experience." His mother exposed him to various environments beyond their immediate circumstances, such as visiting affluent neighborhoods, to broaden his perspective and aspirations. This approach allowed Trevor to envision possibilities beyond the limitations imposed by their socioeconomic status. ​

Born a Crime Chapters Two and Three

 "“Neighbors would report on one another. The girlfriends of the white men in my mom's block of flats had every single reason to report a black woman—a prostitute, no doubt—living among them That's how a police state works—everyone thinks everyone else is the police.” Chapter 2 page 25

This shows just how bold and fearless Patricia had to be to move through a world governed by institutional racism. She was constantly at risk, not just from the law but also from her neighbors. Despite this, she refused to let the system define her life. She intentionally placed herself in spaces where she wasn’t allowed, took jobs she technically wasn’t permitted to have, and even had a child with a white man—something illegal under apartheid. Patricia challenged the system through her choices, her independence, and her refusal to conform to unjust laws. Trevor Noah’s early upbringing was shaped by his mother’s defiance and courage. He was raised to be aware of his situation, but not limited by it. She gave him books, took him to church, and exposed him to languages and culture beyond what was typical in his community. Her approach to parenting was both protective and empowering, trying to create a sense of freedom and possibility despite the restrictive world around them.

“In Soweto, religion filled the void left by absent men. I used to ask my mom if it was hard for her to raise me alone without a husband. She'd reply, ‘Just because I live without a man doesn't mean I've never had a husband. God is my husband.’ For my mom, my aunt, my grandmother, and all the other women on our street, life centered on faith.” Chapter 3 page 39

This passage stood out to me because it beautifully captures the strength and resilience of the women who raised Trevor Noah—and by extension, so many women around the world who raise families without male partners. It hit me emotionally because it shows how deeply faith can fill emotional, social, and even practical gaps when people are left to navigate the world on their own. In Soweto, where men were often absent due to work, death, or abandonment, women held their households and communities together. Patricia, Trevor’s mom, didn’t express sadness about raising him alone—instead, she drew strength from her belief in God. That line, “God is my husband,” really stuck with me. It reminded me of my own grandmother, who raised kids largely on her own and often spoke about “God providing” when things got hard. It made me reflect on how often faith serves not just as a belief system, but as a source of stability, purpose, and identity, especially in places where systems have failed people.

From this chapter, I also learned a lot about Soweto as a community—it was a place of hardship, definitely, but also one of deep cultural and spiritual life. Trevor’s early experiences there shaped how he viewed race, class, gender, and survival. It’s notable how humor, storytelling, and strong family bonds helped people get through tough times. Even in struggle, there was laughter, there was church, there was community. That contrast between scarcity and abundance—in resources versus love—is what made this chapter especially powerful for me.

Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime

 Kevin Hart is my favorite comedian because of his incredible energy, relatability, and ability to turn everyday situations into hilarious stories. His stand-up specials are always packed with humor, but it’s the way he connects with his audience that makes him stand out. He has this unique way of talking about his personal life, from family moments to his experiences as a parent, and he does it in a way that everyone can relate to, no matter their background. In addition to his humor, Kevin Hart is also incredibly motivating. In his interviews and social media, he often shares messages about hard work, perseverance, and pushing yourself to be better, which really resonates with me. His ability to make people laugh while also inspiring them is what makes him such a unique and powerful figure in comedy. 

According to Trevor Noah, the "genius of apartheid" was its ability to divide people by race and ethnicity, creating a system that controlled who interacted with whom, where people could go, and what they could do. It made people internalize the belief that they were inherently different from each other. This system kept groups of people isolated and pitted against one another, which made it easier for the government to maintain control. As for the Xhosa and Zulu tribes, one of the main differences lies in their language and cultural practices. Both tribes have rich histories, but the Xhosa people speak a different language from the Zulu, and they each have their own customs and traditions. There is also a history of rivalry between the two groups, influenced by both colonialism and their cultural differences.Trevor Noah’s very birth was considered a "crime" because, under apartheid laws, his mother, who was black, and his father, who was white, were not allowed to be in a relationship. The laws criminalized interracial relationships, so Noah’s existence was a direct violation of these racist regulations.

On page five, Noah recalls his mother throwing him out of a moving car when he was nine years old. At first, this might seem like a random act, but we later learn that his mother was deeply involved in religion and was very strict about it. She believed that the devil might be controlling Noah, which led her to take extreme actions in trying to protect him. The actual reason for him being thrown out of the car was because of his mother’s beliefs in spirituality and her desire to “save” him from evil forces. So far, Noah describes his relationship with his mother as complicated. She was loving but also tough on him. Despite her sometimes harsh methods, Noah has deep respect and admiration for her, and she plays a huge role in shaping his life and perspective 

Taocs come in soft shells or hard shells either one will give you a unique flavor combination. The toppings of your choice with different types of meat. You get the crunchy shell, juicy fillings like seasoned meat, or beans, and all the fresh toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. It's a burst of flavors in every bite! In the video, Noah shares a hilarious moment where he first experiences tacos, and it’s striking because of his genuine enthusiasm and curiosity. His excitement over something so simple is relatable because food can be an experience that brings people joy, especially when it's something new and exciting.

Why Should Anyone Care?

 The issue I care about most is access to public services for immigrants. Across the United States, immigrants, both legal and undocumented, face significant barriers when trying to access basic public services such as healthcare, education, and legal assistance. Many immigrant communities are marginalized and lack the support systems that citizens typically rely on. This lack of access leads to poorer health outcomes, lower educational achievements, and limited economic opportunities, further perpetuating cycles of poverty and social inequality. The treatment of immigrants, especially in the context of public services, is a matter of both human rights and social justice, and addressing it would contribute to the broader goal of social equity. 

Companion: You don’t think you could ever really do anything about this issue, do you? It’s so big. There are so many factors involved, and the government doesn't seem interested in fixing it.

Me: Yeah, I know it feels overwhelming. There are political divisions, legal complexities, and even the sheer scale of the problem. It’s easy to feel like my individual actions won’t matter. But, Pollan’s essay really made me think about it differently. He argues that while it feels like our individual contributions are a drop in the bucket, those small actions do add up and can lead to larger cultural and political shifts. If we focus on small, actionable steps, even in the face of big problems, change can happen.

Companion: But don't you think it's just too big? The bureaucracy, the political opposition, how can anything an individual does really make a dent in that?

Me: I get it. It’s easy to get stuck in that thinking. But Pollan talks about the importance of acting anyway, even when it feels futile. He suggests that collective action, even on a small scale, can shift the way people think about an issue. If enough people care and take action, the ripple effect can influence larger systems. It’s like when a local movement to provide better access to healthcare or social services gains momentum. It might start small, but if more people are involved, it can gain traction and force the larger institutions to pay attention.

Companion: So, you think individual actions can actually lead to meaningful change?

Me: Absolutely. I think Pollan’s argument is that the collective action of many individuals, whether it’s voting, volunteering, or advocating for policies—adds up over time and builds momentum. The more people stand up for what they believe in, the more likely those ideas will start influencing larger systems. The key is to not be paralyzed by the size of the problem and instead take small steps that could eventually lead to more systemic change.

Companion: But what if it still feels like a drop in the ocean?

Me: Pollan addresses that too. He says that we have to let go of the idea that individual actions need to solve everything. It’s about being part of a larger movement. Even if we can’t solve all of the problems at once, taking meaningful steps is still valuable because it contributes to a collective effort. It’s not about expecting quick results—it’s about doing something now that will have long-term benefits. And, on a more personal level, it makes us feel more connected to the issue rather than disconnected from it.

Michael Pollan responds to the question, "Why bother?" in his essay by stating that although the concerns we face, such as climate change or other significant societal issues, are daunting, individual acts nonetheless have an impact. He clarifies that the main justification for caring is that minor, individual acts can lead to more significant, systemic change. Even though they might not be sufficient to address the full issue, these steps lay the groundwork for more significant societal changes. Additionally, Pollan highlights that individuals are the first to bring about change: if enough people make thoughtful, modest decisions, they may collectively bring about more significant social and political changes. The significance of acting in accordance with one's principles and the possibility of participation and hope in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles are two more strong arguments.

According to Wendell Berry and Michael Pollan, the problem of specialization—the reduction of responsibilities and focus in contemporary society—is the primary source of a number of industrial civilizational ills, such as social fragmentation, inequality, and environmental degradation. People who are only taught to do one thing become disengaged and fractured in their thinking, losing sight of the bigger picture and the greater good of society. People may comprehend and care about the world more fully in a healthier society if we abandon this strategy and promote holistic engagement instead. A greater sense of responsibility could be developed, for example, by encouraging people to take on numerous roles, such as combining farming with community involvement or business with environmental concern.

From Pollan’s essay, we can learn the importance of defining the problem clearly and breaking down large, complex issues into manageable parts. In our persuasive research proposal, it will be crucial to identify the specific problem, justify its importance, and offer a realistic solution. Pollan’s essay also stresses the significance of small actions and how they add up, which is something we should keep in mind when proposing a solution. While individual actions alone won’t solve the problem, they contribute to a larger movement that can influence policy and public opinion. This is especially relevant in our research proposal, where we need to show how small-scale interventions, like community-based programs or policy changes, can lead to greater change. 

Access to public services for immigrants, especially those who are undocumented, remains a significant issue in the United States. Many immigrants are unable to access essential services such as healthcare, legal assistance, and education, which hinders their ability to thrive and integrate into society. This leads to health disparities, educational inequities, and a lack of legal protection, contributing to cycles of poverty and disenfranchisement. The inability to access these services also exacerbates social tensions and divides communities. This issue affects not only immigrants but society as a whole. By denying immigrants access to public services, we perpetuate inequality and economic instability. Furthermore, immigrants are a vital part of the workforce and contribute to the economy, but without access to services that support their health, education, and legal rights, they cannot fully participate in society. Allowing immigrants access to public services would lead to a more just and equitable society, benefiting everyone in the long run. The solution lies in expanding eligibility for public services to include all immigrants, regardless of their legal status. This includes providing healthcare, educational support, and legal services that will enable immigrants to integrate more effectively into society. Additionally, community-based programs should be implemented to offer support services, such as legal counseling, language classes, and job training. These programs would not only help immigrants but also foster stronger, more cohesive communities. Studies show that immigrants who have access to healthcare, education, and legal services are more likely to contribute positively to society, with improved health outcomes, better educational achievements, and higher levels of employment. According to a 2017 report from the American Public Health Association, expanding access to healthcare for immigrants leads to healthier communities overall, reducing long-term healthcare costs and benefiting public health.