The text is the recorded George W. Bush’s inaugural speech when he was elected to a second term. His speech is critical to the citizens of America because it reveals a national identity that many people still do not recognize. In addition, it appeals to a large audience and captures specific political goals about freedom and human rights. Precisely by touching upon the topic of freedom, this text relates to others read during the course.
The subject of the week is the Philippine-American War, and this text helps think about nationalism, war and conquest. It is rather interesting that, in the text, Bush says that “the best hope for peace in our world is the expansion of freedom in all the world” (“Full text of Bush’s inauguration address”, 2005, para. 10). At the same time, America aimed to deprive the Philippines of its sovereignty. This text also helps to think about broader themes in the course. For example, some motives and objectives are mentioned by Bush and can highlight the essence of America’s actions.
I am most interested in how, at the time, George W. Bush wanted to make America completely free. I am also concerned with the notion of justice and free speech, which, as we now see, are not always respected because of the characteristics of inclusive groups. The text also raises an intriguing question about the politics of individual independence. It seems that we lack knowledge about how to regulate relationships in society and develop social responsibility.
Reference
Full text of Bush’s inauguration address. (2005). IOL. Web.