Fishers Political Myths As Seen In Project Runway

Voting Issues & Character:

Explanation of Fisher's Political Myths with support:

Walter Fisher argued that there are 2 political myths that have dominated American politics. Or 2 distinct American Dreams

The first one is the Materialistic Myth. (From the book) "This myth emphasizes economic issues, material well being, and the drive to succeed and improve ones own life and the lives of our families in a material sense". This myth really emphasizes individualism and the responsibility to take charge of ones life in a materialistic way. In a capitalist society these feelings are very important in encouraging the success in jobs and obtaining materialistic well being and what would be considered a good standard of living.

The second myth is the Moralistic Myth. "This myth celebrates the principles of equality, justice, unity, collective responsibility, and concern for our fellow citizens". This myth really encourages people to take responsibility for helping out those in need and looking towards the greater good other than just themselves. So while materialistic myth encourages people to work hard to better themselves. This myth ensures that all people will have equal opportunities to achieve a happy and healthy life. The welfare system is an example of the Moralistic Myth by helping those less fortunate.

"The materialistic version, on the other hand, embodies the Puritan work ethic in asserting that one's rewards are directly proportional to the effort put forth. The harder one works, the greater the achievement and the larger the returns." http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3971/is_200301/ai_n9198269/pg_5

"The materialistic version of the American Dream sanctions competition (whether for higher grades and merit scholarships, or for promotions and salary increases) as the way of determining personal worth. As Fisher explains, "[I]t promises that if one employs his energies and talents to the fullest, he will reap the rewards of status, wealth andpower"(161). Revolving around persistence, initiative and self-reliance, the materialistic myth can provide a powerful ideological boost to initiatives grounded in its tenets." http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3971/is_200301/ai_n9198269/pg_5

"The moralistic version of the American Dream myth, on the other hand, is embodied in the tenets of the Declaration of Independence -the presumption of equality, the acknowledgment of "certain inalienable rights,"and the understanding that governments are instituted to secure these rights. Fisher observes that these tenets "involve the values of tolerance, charity, compassion, and true regard for the dignity and worth of each and every individual"(161). These values then undergird endeavors to ensure public institutions and agencies guarantee equal treatment, and serve as a foundation for efforts to provide assistance to those who are less fortunate" http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3971/is_200301/ai_n9198269/pg_5

"The moralistic version, Fisher writes, focuses on moral/ethical issues; on the value of the individual and the inherent worth and quality of human beings." http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3971/is_200301/ai_n9198269/pg_5

Application of Political Myths to TV show with video clips:

Materialistic Myth examples: (competitions which lead to individual material rewards during the course of the show. Mini competitions.)

The Materialistic Myth does not apply fully to this show but there are some examples. This myth is generally meant to show what a politician is willing to do for the people electing them to encourage the beliefs of the materialistic myth. However in this show it is applied to those who are being voted on to allow themselves to better their own persons. The ultimate concept of the show is if you work harder and better than everyone else you will win the grand prize. These prizes are material prizes or prizes that help out with their careers which will ultimately lead to a better way of life. All of the key concepts of this myth apply to the basic concept of the show. There are also examples of this in each episode were there is a competition that will lead to a mini prize for that competition which are also materialistic.

Moralistic Myth examples: (Are there any time they can take other people with them for mini competitions) (Show a clip of changing the rules of the game for fairness)

This myth generally applies to politicians who are trying to show that they will help those in need and encourage freedom and equality to everyone. So this concept