AN EXAMINATION OF THE POWER AND INFLUENCE OF MEANINGFUL WORK: MORAL CARTOONISTS, PUBLIC MERCY AND JIHADIST TERRORISM

Abstract

This Humanities portfolio examines the theme of meaningful work throughout an interpersonal experience and then connects to the other work that was completed throughout my time in the Humanities program. The paper views Thomas Nast's cartoons during Reconstruction and how his moral stance provided the foundation for meaningful work. It also looks at the role that mercy plays within the legal system and how more mercy would actually be a public virtue and allow jurors, lawyers and all legal professionals to engage in more meaningful work. Finally the paper addressed the concept of meaningful work and its relation to terrorism. It discusses both the American role in the growth of Al-Qaeda, as well as how terrorism can be seen as unethical yet still defined as meaningful work. The final portion of the paper examines the reaction and desire to engage in meaningful work after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.