Cultural sociology: theory and application

Cultural Sociology

What Defines Us as a Global Population - our Differences or Similarities?

Analysis of "Imagine" by John Lennon

History is littered with wars and global divisions as a result of Man's search for self-definition. Man's differences appear to drive us apart but it is also conceivable that these differences bring us together. The song "Imagine" by John Lennon speaks of a 'utopia' where there are no differences that can potentially divide Man. However, the song only speaks of the differences that instigate violence and alienation. It is Man's varied cultures, religions, and beliefs that allow for our varied strengths, talents and advancements that bring us together and define us as a species.

In the song "Imagine," Lennon refers to a world devoid of heaven and hell, religion, countries, personal possessions, greed and hunger (Lennon, 1995, 1). He sings of a "brother hood of man... living for today" (Lennon, 1995, 2). He believes that these elements in human existence drive a schism through the global population. Lennon feels Man's ambition also plays an adverse role. While Lennon has identified many of the reasons for human conflict, he has also identified elements of an environment known to have generated heroes, leaders, and acts of compassion and human development which, in turn, has defined Man. Without religion, many of the world's cultures, which exist in Europe and the Middle East, would not have been born. Without countries, Man would not be able to celebrate our differences and skills in activities such as the Olympic Games or the Commonwealth Games. Without personal possessions and ambition, we as a species apart from the animals would have difficulty in moving forward. Technological innovations would not exist and we would not have the capacity to make plans for the future if we could only live in today, e.g. only have food for today and total uncertainty for the future. While greed and hunger are negative aspects of human existence, many countries and world organisations have mobilised to eradicate as much of this as possible. People have exercised compassion and love for each other in order to help the less fortunate.