Activity #5 Value Paradox

According to Mooij, a paradox is a statement that seems contradictory but is actually true. When there is a paradox of a value in an opposing value system, it is considered a value paradox. A simple example of such a paradox would be anti-war groups rioting to bring our soldiers home from Iraq. The value system of the anti-war group is essentially to have peace over anything else, but in certain scenarios, the only way to achieve peace is by acting violently.

I found this commercial regarding Occupy Wallstreet. Occupy Wallstreet Advertisement
In the ad, Americans from every walk of life talk about what they want out of the government and politics. This to me represents a freedom paradox. We, as Americans, are "free" to do whatever we want, yet the government controls everything that we do. This commercial represents a "Freedom is not free" sort of mindset that is so true to American culture.

The example I feel is best for representing a paradox from Ireland is Guinness's "Good for you" advertising campagn. In the modern world, we are very aware that alcohol of any kind causes many health problems when drank in excess, yet Guinness advertises that drinking their product will make you feel good, and therefore be good for you. This paradox can be viewed in many different lights. First, alcohol consumption does often put people into a good mood, and can therefore actually make you feel good. Second, our tour guide Ida revealed to us in Dublin that Guinness actually is high in iron, which is literally very good for you. Back in the day, Guinness was actually used as medicine to treat various health conditions and even given to women immediately after childbirth to boost iron levels.