A Comparison of “Live Free and Starve” and “Plato o Plomo”

A Comparison of “Live Free and Starve” and “Plato o Plomo” “Live Free and Starve” by Chitra Divakaruni and “Plato o Plomo” by Marie Javdani are two essays that shed light on different aspects of societal issues. While both essays discuss the impact of certain policies on individuals and communities, they have distinct focuses and perspectives. In this comparison essay, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two thought-provoking works. Similarities Societal Impact: Both essays delve into the consequences of specific policies on individuals and communities. “Live Free and Starve” examines the effects of US policies on labor conditions in the garment industry, particularly in Bangladesh. Similarly, “Plato o Plomo” analyzes the impact of the drug trade and associated policies on the people of Mexico. Injustice and Exploitation: Both essays highlight the presence of injustice and exploitation within the systems they discuss. “Live Free and Starve” brings attention to the exploitation of workers in the garment industry, where low wages and harsh working conditions prevail. Likewise, “Plato o Plomo” exposes the violence, corruption, and economic exploitation caused by the drug trade in Mexico. Personal Narratives: Both essays incorporate personal narratives to convey the lived experiences of individuals affected by the policies under scrutiny. By sharing these stories, the authors humanize the issues, making them more relatable and emotionally impactful. Differences Subject Matter: The subject matter of the essays is distinct. “Live Free and Starve” focuses on labor conditions and the exploitation of workers in the garment industry. It examines the impact of US policies on workers in developing countries. On the other hand, “Plato o Plomo” centers around the drug trade and its effects on Mexican society, including violence, corruption, and economic inequality. Geographical Context: The essays take place in different geographical contexts. “Live Free and Starve” primarily focuses on the garment industry in Bangladesh and its connection to US policies. In contrast, “Plato o Plomo” revolves around the drug trade in Mexico and the impact of drug policies on Mexican society. Author’s Perspectives: The authors offer different perspectives in their essays. In “Live Free and Starve,” Divakaruni critiques the exploitative nature of globalization and the detrimental effects of US policies on developing countries. Javdani, in “Plato o Plomo,” focuses on the violence and corruption that result from the drug trade in Mexico, shedding light on the failures of both Mexican and US policies. Policy Recommendations: While both essays highlight the negative consequences of certain policies, they differ in their proposed solutions. “Live Free and Starve” suggests that consumer awareness and advocacy can play a role in improving labor conditions in the garment industry. On the other hand, “Plato o Plomo” emphasizes the need for comprehensive policy changes, including addressing corruption and providing economic alternatives to combat the drug trade in Mexico. Conclusion Although “Live Free and Starve” and “Plato o Plomo” share a common focus on the impact of policies on individuals and communities, they differ in subject matter, geographical context, author’s perspectives, and proposed solutions. These essays contribute to our understanding of complex societal issues and serve as a call to action in addressing the injustices and exploitations prevalent in these systems. By comparing and contrasting these works, we gain a deeper appreciation for the various dimensions of these issues and the importance of seeking comprehensive solutions for a more just and equitable society.  

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