In the film "On the Waterfront" the idea of being a traitor or a whistle blower is one of the foremost issues. In the film there are those at the head of the mob, those working for the mob and those looking to break the mob. Those looking to break the mob, namely the court and the priest, would generally refer to an individual as an informant on criminal activity. With the information given by informants, the court would have enough evidence to indict Johnny Friendly and thus end the practices of the mob. The priest would never look at someone as a stool pigeon and in this case, being an informant would be the right thing to do. On the other hand, figures of the mob like Johnny Friendly would refer to an individual as a stool pigeon. If one, as leader, were to see activity threatning to one's practice, the expected response would be negative. Those working under the mob outwardly show the same opinion as the leaders, but inwardly believe what is 'right.'
The issue of determining whether or not someone is being a tattle tale versus speaking out against improper behavior is sometimes difficult to determine. In my opinion, an individual is a tattle tale if they tattle for issues of little significance, if they tattle selfishly, or if they tattle to blatantly harm someone. One should speak out against improper behavior if what they define as improper behavior is harmful to someone or something. Everyone has their beliefs and anyone can define something as improper behavior, but speaking out against improper behavior can only be done by those who are strong. With that strength, one can diminish improper behavior
4 comments:
It all depends on how you look at the question. You're right about how perspectives differ on the issue. A traitor is selfish, but it is also a shifty line. There is no finite definition, so it will always be determined by each respective person. That's where the shift in views lie between characters.
I think you make a good point about how those in the mob outwardly agree with the leaders, but inwardly believe what is 'right.' I think that all of us know inside what is "right" and therefore should speak up if we know something, acting as a whistle blower, not a traitor.
I agree with what you are saying, however, I would add a fourth group of those who simply live with the mob presence, content with just staying out of the way. I understand what you are saying in that ones behavior is interpreted different ways depending on the perspective of the viewer, but I would not say that everyone working for the mob was secretly against the leaders. I get what you are saying about the difference in a tattle tale and an informant but I am not sure that I agree entirely. I do agree though, that to be an informant takes strength while tattling is often done by a coward.
I agree with you completely when you say that people view a person as a traitor or a whistle blower solely based on their position in society. I also agree that if someone is snitching for their own personal gain or on a tiny thing then they should be considered a tattletale. Anytime someone has the strength to stand up for what they believe in no matter the consequences, I think they are a whistle blower.
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