English 1302.19
Dr. Rathbun
21 October 2014
For Kudos and Other Reasons
I partially agree with the author of “Killing for Kudos” because on one hand, I agree that the violence in Mexico is absurd but on the other hand I disagree that there is no reason for the violence. I have family in Mexico and I am aware of the violence that is happening right on my back yard. All the violent massacres, I believe are uncalled for, but the cartels see it as a necessity in order to get a hold of territory. The ways they do their killings have gone too far and it’s disgusting how they consider it an entertainment.
The article “Killing for Kudos – the brutal face of Mexico’s 21st Century war” by Ed Vulliamy reports the violence, massacres and drug wars happening in Mexico. After spending a year there documenting the horrific killings, Vulliamy exclaims, “What is going on?” not understanding the reasons for the massacres. There is no political reason behind this war or purpose like it was believed to be in the 19th century, where wars were fought for religion, power, and resources. It’s about showing off their power by the killings they accomplish or how “grotesque” and “perversely inventive” they can get. Such as the abduction of 36-year-old Hugo Hernandez found dead and dismembered, with his face “stitched to a football”. Additionally, “A brave human rights and migration activist in Reynosa called Mario Treviño,” says these killers do “it for kudos” and show their rank or status by wearing certain name brand clothing. That wasn’t enough for the cartels and killers, they “use YouTube and mobile phones” to “broadcast their savagery” and “sick humor”. The Catholic Church and women have attempted resistance, but priests have been murdered for their attempts, and the women can only “fight as individuals” at home. The drug war in Mexico is “post-political” and there’s no point for this 21st century war it’s just simply an exposition. Vulliamy’s article enlightened
Cited: Vulliamy, Edward, “Killing for Kudos – the brutal face of Mexico’s 21st-century war.” Guardian 7 Sunday February 2010 Pre-Grade This article was a bit hard for me to understand. I had trouble finding what I the authors meaning was. I had trouble with the counter argument and I felt I sidetracked. I am not all pleased with this essay. I asked for help from my family members. I discussed my intentions to write about and revised it with them. It actually left me feeling a lot more confused than when I first read the article and revised the summary with my peers.