Posted by ConchHead on August 15, 2001 at 14:35:45:
In Reply to: Briland's future posted by Colin on August 15, 2001 at 13:19:00:
Jeez- I guess you don't think we should have computers either?!
: Briland, in common with much of the Bahamas, is soaking up a great deal of American culture. The songs of the past seem to have dried up, with James and one or two others reviving them occassionally. I find it hard to believe that rap will represent Bahamian life, but I may be old fashioned.
: Television isn't a bad thing in and of itself but it does not encourage the communal life that so marks Briland, even today. And so much of the programming is American that I cannot believe it contributes much to the quality of information or quality of life Bahamians enjoy.
: While I am glad so many VERY rich people from Australia, Europe and America visit Briland and may own homes on the island, I worry that many of these people contribute less to the life of the island than their somewhat poorer cousins did in years past. I wonder if their greater isolation from Brilanders doesn't generate greater suspicion and resentment. I'm not sure about any of this, but I do worry about the effects these largely American economic and cultural forces are having on Briland and on the Bahamas in general.
: And when American booms or does something really stupid (Prohibition, the Civil War), historically the Bahamas benefits. I hope these latest effects are the problems of prosperity.
: All that said, I love no place more than Briland, for its lovely people, its quiet, its great physical beauty and its culture.
: Let the debate begin!
: Colin