Alright, now that I have forced myself to type such a terrible phrase, I will get to my blog. Today I saw a presentation on the term YOLO (in case you live under a slippery rock [see what I did there?], that stands for "you only live once") and the effect it is having on our culture.
By some, YOLO is seen as a modern day "Carpe Diem." However, I see it as the worst phrase to come to the world since Paris Hilton coined "that's hott." Carpe Diem is all about seizing the day. YOLO, on the other hand, is typically used by teenagers as a justification for doing something stupid. For example...
"Getting wasted tonight. YOLO!"
"I have an exam tomorrow? YOLO!"
"I'm pregnant. YOLO!"
See what I mean? This is particularly concerning because I think it encourages our students to act out and be okay with it. Don't see what I mean? Try it yourself. State something stupid you may do in the next week. Now say YOLO! Feel better about your actions? I knew you would.
On the very, very few occasions I found myself using this awful phrase, I really did feel less guilty about not studying for an exam, etc. But not studying for an exam is minimal compared to other YOLO cases.
What do you guys think? Does YOLO help the kids that will be our students justify making bad choices? How will this effect our classrooms? Is there a way around it? YOLO!
Well, I wrote about YOLO too... I guess I should check your Blog before I write mine. Oh well, YOLO. :)
ReplyDeletewhat does that mean again? my roommate always says it and i just smile and laugh...i really have no idea what it stands for...
ReplyDeleteI think that this "catchy" phrase will not necessarily influence kids to do bad things, but it is a justification for those who already do them. If they're going to use "YOLO" as an excuse not to do homework or to blow off responsibilities, then I think the bigger problems is at hand. The phrase itself is just obnoxious!
ReplyDelete