【Comment】A Grim Funhouse

The two currently popular (though describing them as "popular" isn't entirely accurate, as they actually have ancient roots) cultural stances are quite interesting and starkly different from each other. One advocates for materialism, exemplified by Lady Gaga who embodies The Fame through her actions; the other questions excessive materialism, almost scrutinizing the richness of the world with a hostile gaze. Supporters of the former mock the latter for being rigid, hypocritical, and pretentious; while admirers of the latter accuse the former of being selfish, indulgent, and morally bankrupt. These two seemingly opposite views, however, share the same core – the pursuit of the full liberation and freedom of human nature. People are different from one another, their natures originally diverse and not unified. It's good for individuals to self-reflect occasionally, but there's no need to measure others against the same standard. In fact, "elitism" and the "Beat Generation" aren't as clearly distinct as people assume. Human beings are complex and contradictory, and humanity cannot stubbornly cut off a part of itself.