Mark Tompkins's Blog

Before Peter Jackson became the cinematic wizard who brought The Lord of the Rings to life, he was busy splattering the screen with buckets of blood, guts, and dark humor. Braindead—also known as Dead Alive in the U.S.—is a horror-comedy masterpiece that proves Jackson has always been a visionary, just one who started with zombies instead of hobbits.

Released in 1992, Braindead tells the story of Lionel, a timid young man living with his overbearing mother in 1950s New Zealand. When his mom is bitten by a Sumatran Rat-Monkey (yes, you read that right), she turns into a flesh-hungry zombie. From there, things spiral into pure, hilarious chaos. Lionel desperately tries to keep his undead mother and her growing horde of infected victims under control, all while falling in love and trying to hold onto what’s left of his sanity.

What makes Braindead unforgettable is its insane commitment to over-the-top gore mixed with genuine charm. This isn’t your average horror flick—it’s a symphony of splatter, full of practical effects, twisted creativity, and slapstick comedy that somehow makes you laugh while your jaw drops in disbelief. The film’s legendary lawnmower scene alone has gone down in horror history as one of the bloodiest ever filmed—and it’s glorious.

But underneath all the guts and gags, there’s real filmmaking talent at work. Jackson’s camera moves with energy and confidence, his practical effects are wildly imaginative, and the pacing never lets up. You can already see hints of the storytelling mastery he’d later use to captivate the world with Tolkien’s Middle-earth.

Braindead isn’t just a movie—it’s an experience. It’s the kind of film that horror fans cherish, a perfect blend of grotesque and goofy that’s still unlike anything else more than thirty years later. If you love horror with a sense of humor, this one’s an absolute must-watch!

When George A. Romero dropped Night of the Living Dead in 1968, he didn’t just release a horror movie — he unleashed a cultural virus. What started as a low-budget black-and-white indie became the patient zero for the modern zombie myth. Every moaning corpse, every survival barricade, every apocalypse that shuffles and bites its way through pop culture traces back to this film.

The Birth of the Modern Zombie

Before Night of the Living Dead, zombies were more voodoo than virus — hypnotized victims, not flesh-eating monsters. Romero flipped that on its head. His ghouls didn’t crawl from folklore; they crawled out of the ground, mindless and hungry. And that hunger — for human flesh — became the defining feature of a new horror species.

No one had seen anything like it. The film’s stark realism and documentary-style camerawork made it feel disturbingly possible. It wasn’t a safe kind of horror with polished sets and orchestral strings — it was grainy, grim, and raw. The fear felt real because it was real for the characters.

More Than Just Monsters

The brilliance of Night of the Living Dead isn’t just in the scares — it’s in the subtext. Romero used zombies to hold up a mirror to society. Racial tension, media hysteria, the breakdown of authority — all of it simmers beneath the chaos. Casting Duane Jones, a Black man, as the film’s lead in 1968 wasn’t just bold — it was revolutionary.

That ending — brutal, sudden, and politically charged — still hits like a punch to the gut. It’s the kind of ending that lingers long after the credits roll, forcing you to ask who the real monsters are.

Why It Still Matters

Over half a century later, Night of the Living Dead still hits hard. Its DNA is in The Walking Dead, 28 Days Later, Train to Busan, and every video game where you’re barricading doors with whatever you can find. But it’s more than a genre cornerstone — it’s a lesson in independent filmmaking.

Romero made it with a tiny budget, a handful of friends, and sheer creative will. He didn’t have special effects or studio backing. What he had was vision — and that was enough to create an immortal classic.

The Undead Legacy

Zombies never die — that’s the point. They keep coming back, reanimated by new fears, new technologies, new pandemics. Each generation gets the zombie it deserves. But Night of the Living Dead? That’s where the infection began.

It’s more than a movie — it’s a warning, a mirror, and a milestone. The dead may walk, but Night of the Living Dead will never rest. Especially for me, I absolutely love zombie movies. Even the really bad ones!

Neil deGrasse Tyson's Astrophysics for People in a Hurry is exactly what its title promises: a digestible and engaging crash course in the wonders of the cosmos, tailor-made for the time-strapped individual.

It's not a textbook, nor is it a deep dive into complex equations. Instead, it's a beautifully written and accessible overview of everything from the Big Bang to dark matter, delivered with Tyson's signature wit and enthusiasm.

What works:
- Accessibility: This is the book's greatest strength. Tyson excels at breaking down complex scientific concepts into understandable language, using analogies and metaphors that resonate with a general audience. He avoids jargon as much as possible, making astrophysics feel less like a daunting field and more like a captivating story.
- Engaging Prose: Tyson's writing is far from dry or academic. He infuses the book with a sense of wonder and excitement, making the reader feel like they are on a personal journey of discovery with him. His humor is well-placed and adds to the overall enjoyment.
- Comprehensive Scope: Despite its brevity, the book covers a surprising amount of ground. From the formation of stars and galaxies to the nature of black holes and the search for extraterrestrial life, Tyson touches upon many of the most fascinating topics in astrophysics.
- Emphasis on Context: Tyson doesn't just present facts; he provides context. He explains why these concepts are important and how they relate to our understanding of the universe and our place within it. This approach helps the reader to grasp the bigger picture and appreciate the interconnectedness of everything.
- Awe-Inspiring Perspective: Ultimately, the book succeeds in its goal of providing a perspective shift. By understanding the vastness of the universe and the intricacies of its workings, the reader is left with a profound sense of humility and wonder.

What could be improved:
- Over-Simplification: While the book's accessibility is a major strength, it also means that some concepts are inevitably over-simplified. This might leave some readers wanting more detail or a deeper understanding.
- Brevity Constraints: Given the book's limited length, some topics are necessarily glossed over. This can leave the reader feeling that they have only scratched the surface of certain fascinating areas.
- Lack of Visuals: While the writing is excellent, the book could have benefited from more diagrams and illustrations to help visualize some of the more complex concepts.

Overall:
Astrophysics for People in a Hurry is a fantastic introduction to the wonders of the universe. It's perfect for anyone who is curious about astrophysics but doesn't have the time or inclination to wade through dense textbooks. Tyson's clear and engaging writing style makes complex concepts accessible to a wide audience, and his infectious enthusiasm is sure to ignite a passion for science in even the most reluctant reader.
While it may not provide an exhaustive understanding of the field, it offers a valuable and inspiring glimpse into the cosmos that will leave you with a greater appreciation for the universe and our place within it.

Highly Recommended for:
- Anyone curious about astrophysics.
- People with limited time but a desire to learn.
- Students looking for a supplementary resource to their studies.
- Anyone who enjoys science writing that is both informative and entertaining.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. A must-read for anyone looking to expand their understanding of the universe without getting bogged down in complex details.

Science fiction and horror are a potent combination. One whispers of the possible, the other screams of the terrifying. But when you fuse the two, you’re faced with a fascinating dilemma: how much scientific accuracy do you need to make the horror truly effective ? Do you stick rigorously to known scientific principles, or do you embrace a bit of "rule of cool" to ratchet up the fear factor?

The answer, as with most things in writing, is: it depends.

The Case for Realism: Grounding the Terror

On one hand, grounding your sci-fi horror in believable science can significantly enhance the impact. Think about the films Contagion or The Andromeda Strain . Their power comes not just from the threat of a deadly virus, but from the chilling plausibility of the science behind it. The more real it feels, the more easily the audience can project themselves into the scenario, and the more truly terrifying it becomes.

Building Trust: A foundation of accurate science builds trust with your reader. They are more likely to suspend disbelief regarding the unrealistic elements if they trust you've done your homework on the realistic ones.

Adding Depth: Realism can add layers of complexity to your horror. Ethical dilemmas surrounding scientific advancements, the consequences of unchecked experimentation, and the potential for unintended consequences become more impactful when rooted in actual scientific possibility.

Enhancing the "What If?" Factor: When you base your horror on extrapolations of existing science, you invite your reader to consider the frightening "what if?" scenarios. What if genetic engineering goes too far? What if we accidentally awaken something ancient while drilling into the Antarctic ice?

The Case for Artistic License: Prioritizing the Scare

On the other hand, sometimes strict adherence to scientific accuracy can detract from the horror. Obsessing over every detail can bog down the narrative, confuse readers, and ultimately diminish the impact of the scary bits. Furthermore, some of the most iconic sci-fi horror concepts, like faster-than-light travel or psychic abilities, simply aren't scientifically plausible yet (or possibly ever).

Sacrificing Narrative Flow: Explaining complex scientific concepts can interrupt the flow of your story and pull the reader out of the moment. Sometimes it's better to imply the science and focus on the emotional impact.

Limiting Creativity: Clinging too tightly to scientific accuracy can stifle your imagination and prevent you from exploring truly bizarre and terrifying ideas.

The "Rule of Cool" Factor: Let's be honest, sometimes a cool and scary concept trumps scientific accuracy. Think about the body horror of The Thing or the monstrous transformations in Altered States . While not entirely plausible, they are undeniably terrifying and unforgettable.

Finding the Balance: Striking the Right Chord
So, how do you strike the right balance? Here are a few tips:

Know Your Audience: Consider your target audience. Are they hard sci-fi enthusiasts who demand accuracy, or are they more interested in a thrilling and suspenseful story?

Do Your Research (Even If You Bend the Rules): Even if you plan to bend the rules of science, it's crucial to understand them first. This allows you to make informed decisions about where to deviate and how to justify those deviations within the context of your story.

Focus on the Emotional Impact: Prioritize the emotional impact of your story. Don't let scientific accuracy get in the way of creating a truly terrifying and engaging experience.

Use Hand-Waving Sparingly and Effectively: When you do need to gloss over scientific details, do it with a sense of confidence and purpose. A well-placed "nanites did it" can be more effective than a lengthy and confusing explanation.

Consistency is Key (Even in Inaccuracy): Whatever level of scientific accuracy you choose, maintain consistency throughout your story. Don't suddenly introduce a scientifically implausible element halfway through without explanation.

Consider the Themes: How does the science – real or imagined – contribute to the overall themes of your story? Is it a cautionary tale about unchecked scientific ambition? A meditation on the limits of human knowledge?

Ultimately, the key to successful sci-fi horror is to use science as a tool to enhance the horror, not to constrain it. Don't be afraid to bend the rules, but do so with intention and purpose. Because when you find the right balance, you can create a truly terrifying and thought-provoking experience that will linger in your readers' minds long after they've finished reading.

What are your thoughts? Do you prefer your sci-fi horror grounded in realism, or do you prefer a more fantastical approach? Share your opinions in the comments below!

Horror. Just the word can conjure images of blood-soaked screams, chilling shadows, and the existential dread that crawls under your skin. But beyond the jump scares and gore, horror is a powerful force in literature, one that continues to shape and influence modern storytelling in profound ways. While often relegated to its own genre niche, its tendrils reach far beyond, creeping into everything from mainstream fiction to social commentary.

So, why is horror still so relevant? Why does it continue to resonate with readers in the 21st century?

More Than Just Scares: Horror as a Mirror to Society

At its core, horror isn't just about making you jump. It's about confronting our fears, anxieties, and the darkness that lurks within ourselves and our society. From the atomic anxieties that fueled classic sci-fi horror like "Godzilla" to the societal commentary of Jordan Peele's "Get Out," horror uses the fantastic and grotesque to explore real-world issues.

Exploring Trauma and Mental Health: Modern horror literature doesn't shy away from the complexities of trauma. Authors like Paul Tremblay ("A Head Full of Ghosts") and Shirley Jackson ("The Haunting of Hill House") delve into the psychological effects of trauma, blurring the lines between the supernatural and the internal demons we all face.

Challenging Social Norms and Power Structures: Horror provides a fertile ground for exploring themes of social injustice, inequality, and the abuse of power. From the gothic horrors of the Victorian era that subtly critiqued class disparity to contemporary stories tackling issues of racism, sexism, and environmental destruction, horror exposes the monsters hidden within our systems.

Confronting the Unknowable: In an increasingly secular world, horror often serves as a substitute for traditional religious frameworks, allowing us to grapple with the existential questions of mortality, the afterlife, and the limits of human understanding. Think of the cosmic horror of H.P. Lovecraft, which, despite its problematic aspects, introduced the idea of horrors so vast they defy human comprehension.
Influencing the Literary Landscape: Horror's Genre-Bending Impact

The influence of horror can be seen in various genres, blurring the lines and creating fascinating hybrids:

Dark Fantasy: Works like Neil Gaiman's "American Gods" and "The Ocean at the End of the Lane" seamlessly blend fantasy with elements of horror, creating worlds both wondrous and terrifying.

Literary Thrillers: The psychological suspense and suspenseful atmosphere of horror often find their way into literary thrillers, adding a layer of unease and dread that elevates the reading experience. Gillian Flynn's "Gone Girl" and Tana French's "In the Woods" are prime examples.

Historical Fiction: Authors are increasingly using horror tropes to explore the darker aspects of history, shedding light on the horrors of the past through a chilling lens. For instance, "The Terror" by Dan Simmons utilizes historical events to explore themes of survival, madness, and the unknown.

The Future of Fear: Where Horror is Headed
Horror literature continues to evolve and adapt to the anxieties of the modern world. We can expect to see:

More Diverse Voices: The horror landscape is becoming increasingly inclusive, with authors from marginalized communities bringing new perspectives and experiences to the genre.

Environmental Horror (Eco-Horror): As concerns about climate change and environmental degradation grow, we'll likely see more stories exploring the horrific consequences of our actions on the planet.

Technological Horror: The rapid advancement of technology offers new avenues for terror, as authors explore the potential for artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and social media to become sources of fear and alienation.

Conclusion: Embracing the Darkness
Horror literature is more than just a source of cheap thrills. It's a powerful tool for exploring the human condition, confronting our fears, and challenging the status quo. By embracing the darkness, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

So, the next time you're looking for a book that will truly stay with you, don't shy away from the horror section. You might just find something that scares you, challenges you, and ultimately, changes you.

What are some of your favorite horror books and authors? Share your recommendations in the comments below!

In the Desert


By Stephen Crane

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In the desert
I saw a creature, naked, bestial,
Who, squatting upon the ground,
Held his heart in his hands,
And ate of it.
I said, “Is it good, friend?”
“It is bitter—bitter,” he answered;

“But I like it
“Because it is bitter,
“And because it is my heart.”







Source: Twentieth-Century American Poetry (2004)

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The Hsi Lai Temple is one of the largest Buddhist temples in North America and encompasses 15 acres and a floor area of over 100,000 square feet. It is the Regional Headquarters of Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order. Traditional Ming and Qing dynasty influence abounds in the temple’s statues, gardens, and architecture. Hsi Lai means “Coming to the West” and portrays the Order’s dedication to spreading the teachings of the Buddha to Western culture (Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple, 2018). It is located at 3456 Glenmark Dr. Hacienda Heights, CA 91745.

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Temple Gate

We checked the weather in San Pedro and with an expected high of 83 degrees we boarded our Can Am Spyder and headed out for our Saturday adventure.  At the time, I didn’t consider how much cooler the coast of southern California is compare to inland destinations which resulted in much higher temperatures at the temple, despite it being nestled into the foothills. Parking at the temple was a nightmare and we had to circle the parking lot several times before heading down the street to seek parking elsewhere. It was 106 degrees and I let my wife off to stand in the shade of the main gate. I finally found a small place at the bottom of the hill on Glenmark Dr. that I could fit in, courtesy of the Spyder’s small footprint, and trudged my way back up the hill to my awaiting wife. Sweating profusely, we began to explore the temple grounds.

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Bodhisattva Hall

We entered Bodhisattva Hall and were greeted with the likenesses of several statues depicting enlightened sages clad in gold. Being unfamiliar with Buddhist lifestyle, we weren’t sure where we were allowed to roam until we asked one of the many helpful people we encountered throughout our visit. We exited Bodhisattva Hall to the wide expanse of the courtyard, which is used for walking meditation during retreats and other outdoor events. The pavement rectangles represent China’s rice paddies with weeds around the edges. The courtyard was massive and we had arrived just after some kind of outdoor presentation. Monks dressed in traditional robes called Kasaya walked with purpose, adding to the surreal atmosphere that transported my imagination to China. At that moment I felt far away from southern California. I was completely lost in the experience now and felt out of place in my shorts, t-shirt, and tennis shoes.

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Temple Courtyard

We stopped in the information center and tried some delicious Fo Guang Tea, despite the heat. I was hoping it was cold but should have known better considering where we were. It tasted good, but I couldn’t drink very much because it only made me hotter. As we walked along the outer rim of the courtyard to stay in the shade, we saw gardens and many different statues of the Buddha and other entities made from many materials, including carved wood.

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We found a tea room and gift store next to the dining hall and perused their offerings, sometimes aghast at the staggering prices of some of the merchandise for sale. The exotic gifts were incredibly beautiful, but I could not see paying thousands of dollars for a statue I could easily pack in the Spyder’s saddlebags for the trip home. My unfamiliarity with these items may highlight my ignorance of their value and they could have been good deals, but I do not have any experience for perspective.

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Main Shrine

We finally arrived at the Main Shrine and was greeted with a sign proclaiming no shorts were allowed.  There were several women sitting at tables that immediately offered to provide my wife with a cover up to wear so we could go into the shrine. My shorts went to my knee and they said that was okay. I don’t know if the deciding factor was because she was female, or if her shorts were too short. We thanked them and went inside the enjoy the cool air for a bit.

Rows of seats lined the floor and we sat in the back to take in the sights.  Three statues of Sakyamuni Buddha graced the center of the main wall overlooking many offerings. No pictures were permitted. Devotees entered, performed prayer rituals, then left, not staying more than a few minutes. The feeling of peace and tranquility I experienced there was palpable and for a few moments I was able to leave the busy city just down the street aside and clear my mind. There are too few times I can achieve that level of peace and this time was memorable.  In fact, I didn’t feel the frenetic city energy the entire time I was on the temple grounds and its absence was notable.

By this time we were hungry, hot, and ready to get home, so we journeyed back to San Pedro with a long stop in air conditioned comfort of Denny’s. It’s hard to believe something as beautiful and unique as the Hsi Lai Temple exists in southern California.  One aspect that really intrigued me is that it is fully functional and not just decorative or symbolic. I always thought I would have to journey overseas to visit an authentic monastic temple and see the incredible art and gardens, but it just goes to show the depth of culture one can experience in this great country of ours if you just get out and look around. Now get out there and experience something new!

His Lai Temple Website Link: http://www.hsilai.org/en/

References

Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple. (2018). About Hsi Lai. Retrieved from Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple: http://www.hsilai.org/en/hlt/

 

 

 

 

 

The Devil’s Work is a short story I created to explore one man’s experience of Hell as a serial killer and cannibal. The Devil’s Work is the story of the first time Wesley Black dies and captures a brief moment during his multiple life prison sentences. Wesley Black is an inmate in the world’s most secure prison, Outpost 86. Outpost 86 is a structure with several levels below ground and several above. It is situated near the South Pole next to the Transantarctic Mountains and was built as part of the creation of a new branch of government in charge of overpopulation of prisons. Wesley chooses to live underground because of greater opportunity for privacy, and the permafrost helps extend the shelf-life of the meat of his victims.

Outpost 86’s remote location offers a unique opportunity to create a prison without cells or guards. A single cyanide filled chamber facilitates entry and exit from the prison making local security obsolete. The prisoners regulate themselves through survival of the fittest and security is provided by its remote location and the inhospitable environment escapees would face in the unlikely event they got out of the prison.

Because of the lack of formal security, Wesley can continue to murder and eat people in the nearly vacant lower levels. Only society’s worst criminals are committed to Outpost 86 which makes the population relatively sparse in such a huge facility. At the time The Devil’s Work takes place Outpost 86 is less than 25% filled, and with total square footage several times larger than The Pentagon, there are plenty of isolated places. Wesley uses this isolation to carry out his nefarious practices and lives his life in relative peace as the other inmates lack the stomach for his lifestyle. As one of the initial inmates, he has always carried an imposing presence and instilled a certain level of fear into subsequent arrivals who are happy to leave him alone in his subterranean lair.

Before his time at Outpost 86, Wesley was a medical doctor who exhibited acute psychopathic behavior. Wesley controlled this behavior well, but occasionally the urge would get so strong he would have to act on his impulses to get it out of his system for a while. This recurring theme led to the longest and most prolific serial killing spree in history and launched Dr. Wesley Black into the history books upon his conviction.

His mental illness influenced the decision to opt out of the death penalty and to place Wesley into the newly constructed Outpost 86 where he could serve his time and subsequently fulfill the facilities’ medical needs. This alleviated the need for outside doctors and put Wesley’s medical expertise to some use. Unfortunately, it also gave him all the tools necessary to continue his psychotic episodes and raise his victim count.

Wesley lived a normal childhood devoid of the normal tragic experiences traditionally associated with mental illness like molestation or abuse, so the circumstances surrounding his affliction are unclear. He earned excellent grades throughout his education and graduated with honors from John Hopkins University. On paper, his life was the model of success and control, but he waged a constant war with an unseen inner demon that forced him to carve a normal existence from the cacophony of psychological disharmony in which he perpetually existed.

Outpost 86 will be featured in its own full-length novel that is currently in work, in which Wesley Black plays a significant role in the story. It portrays the moment Wesley Black dies and sets the stage for the events in The Devil’s Work. This spin-off story grew from an urge to explore events in Wesley Black’s life that I felt did not fit into Outpost 86. I am also planning to write a novel about Wesley Black’s life before he was sentenced to Outpost 86 and chronicle his life as a serial cannibal. Click on the cover below to buy The Devil’s Work from Amazon for only .99 cents.

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Inferno- Coppo di Marcovaldo

Mr. Crispy is a character in my Purgatory series. He is a pyromaniac that gets caught in a blaze of his own making and dies.  He winds up in Purgatory sporting the scars of his sins.  Mr. Crispy is not his real name, but it is the name bestowed upon him by the Purgatorial community after his arrival. His skin is charred black and mottled with shiny swollen areas that constantly seep pus and plasma from eternally fresh wounds. Purgatory’s inhabitants bear the evidence of their sins for all to see and Mr. Crispy will be afflicted with his burns until a higher power sees fit to let him pass. This is a sentiment he begins to doubt as time creeps on and there is no communication or interaction with God. He feels he has surely atoned for any sins out of the agony of his existence alone and is beginning to think there is no place to move on to.

Mr. Crispy, formerly know as…well, you don’t get to know his real name yet, is a young man of undetermined age, however, I see him as being in his early teens. He is a typical teen, aside from a strong desire to burn things, but feels like an outsider because of his affliction. The fact he recognizes it as an affliction means he knows better than to do it, but lacks the self-control to fight the urge. This secret weighs upon him and defines his interaction with his friends; slightly introverted, guarded, and quick to make an excuse to bugger off from group activities. He would much rather spend time alone than with people so he doesn’t have to hide his dark side, his dark friend, as he often thinks of that part of himself.

Fire intrigues him and he has wielded it for so long that he feels in control of it. There was only one time that control slipped from his grasp, but since the fire was contained in his neighbor’s back yard and was extinguished quickly, his illusion of control held. His final battle with his dark friend made him realize how small and inconsequential he was compared to nature, and could have been a therapeutic turning point for him had he won. Tragic situations sometimes have a way of clearing one’s head and changing perspective, but all to often people don’t get the chance to use that realization to enact positive personal change. Maybe part of what makes situations like his so tragic is that the answer shows itself too late to help, like deciding too late the correct course of action to avoid an automotive collision.

His personality does not improve any after reaching Purgatory.  He loathes his situation, but is happy he is not in Hell, regardless of how much fire is there. He loathes his neighbors, except for the beautiful but troubled Annabelle, an ex porn-star with whom he is infatuated despite her…shall we say rather noticeable genitals. He is confused about the physics of Purgatory as it seems things are possible there that weren’t when he was alive; more of a dream-like state where his environment can change on a whim, leaving him often ill-prepared for his circumstances.  He is stuck in this suburban version of Hell and can find no peace.

Mr. Crispy has discovered a hidden side, a special place where he can go to another dimension, an escape from one Purgatory into another. This second Purgatory is more reminiscent of when he was alive and it draws him incessantly.  Spending time between the two realities has caused him to be confused as to which one is real, or if they both are real. His struggles are not only physical, but mental and psychological as well as he fights to figure out reality and reaffirm his sanity.  Will he figure out which dimension is real? Is it even possible? Will he learn the truth about where and who he is? Is there a Heaven or Hell?  The second reality and the ensuing struggle are introduced in Purgatory: Episode II. Both stories are free and can be accessed by clicking on the links. I hope you get to meet Mr. Crispy, he is quite a character and his continued adventures will be chronicled in future episodes.  Happy reading.

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Photo courtesy of http://www.soccerbbc.com

My opinion is yes, America is still the greatest country in the world. Statistical data aside, the U.S. offers many opportunities to live a fulfilling and prosperous life. Besides occupational opportunities, America offers plenty of leisure activities to help provide a well-rounded lifestyle. It also offers democracy, which allows the People to elect their leaders. Democracy is the cornerstone of the foundation of our government and must be protected for America to retain its identity in this ever-changing world.  Political freedom is the spirit of democracy and is meant to protect and promote the People’s rights, welfare, and interests (Unknown, 2018). Great is defined as being considerably above the normal or average (Dictionary.com, 2017) and it is upon this definition the following points rest.

Land of Opportunity – America is the greatest country in the world because of opportunity. America earned the nickname Land of Opportunity because people are mainly limited by their own imagination when deciding what they can do here. A fast-food employee can take the necessary steps to transition to a company CEO if they are motivated enough.
Justice and Equality – America may not have always promoted equality, but modern times showcase the great strides made to correct this egregious mindset. America’s judicial system attempts to ensure justice is provided fairly and without bias. The system may not be perfect, but the mindset of innocent until proven guilty presents the best opportunity for fair and impartial treatment. American laws are the culmination of growth and understanding as times change and only when it is determined what is just and unjust can justice and injustice be properly related to what is fair or unfair (Adler, 2002).
America, like every country, has had its share of growing pains and atrocities. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. noted, the racial inequality of segregation caused much avoidable suffering and unjust treatment in the court system (King Jr., 1963). Some of the things that make America not the best country in the world have been from atrocious acts of mistreatment of humans. No country is without blame in this area, but the thought of this mentality being condoned in what is supposed to be a free country throws a dark stain on America’s image and calls into question the sincerity of America’s claims of tolerance and diversity acceptance, even today.
Racial tensions aren’t the only blemish on the America’s social fabric, and as technology advances, the country seems to be weakening from the inside out. More and more people are turning to electronic sources of entertainment and social interaction which results in a decline in personal social skills needed to physically interact with each other. Putnam noted that the Internet and other virtual means of collaboration are causing a civic vacancy due to lack of personal engagement (Bella, Madsen, Sullivan, Swidler, Tipton, 1996). This is creating a nation of zombies more focused on the screens in front of their faces than real world around them. Of course, this is not only an American problem, it is a global epidemic that is contributing to the loss of the feeling of civic responsibilities.

America is still a great country and an economic powerhouse. Despite its learning stumbles, it is a shining example of capitalism and the application of the democratic method. The U.S. may not statistically top many of the lists societies use to gauge “greatness”, however, the constant stream of immigrants of all nationalities seeking entrance into our borders suggests many countries see America as a place they would rather be than in their own country. The U.S. still offers many opportunities to thrive beyond expectation and live a fruitful, engaging, and fulfilling life despite the issues/conflicts inherent in any democratic government setting.

References

Adler, M. J. (2002, January 8). Six Great Ideas. From Cyberspacei.com: http://cyberspacei.com/greatbooks/h2/6gi/gi_024.htm

Bellah, R. N., Madsen, R., Sullivan, W. M., Swidler, A., & Tipton, S. M. (1996, May               08). Individualism and the crisis of civic membership. The Christian Century, 113, 510. Retrieved from: https://www.religion-online.org/article/individualism-and-the-crisis-of-civic-membership/

Dictionary.com. (2017, April 26). Great. From Dictionary.com: http://www.dictionary.com/browse/greatness

King Jr., M. L. (1963, April 16). Letter from a Birmingham jail [King, Jr]. From African Studies Center – University of Pennsylvania: http://www.africa.upenn.edu/Articles_Gen/Letter_Birmingham.html

Unknown. (2018, April 26). Week 1: The USA and the World. From Cyberactive.bellevue.edu: https://cyberactive.bellevue.edu/webapps/blackboard/content/listContent.jsp?course_id=_478003_1&content_id=_9665260_1