LEARN MORE...
Things That Matter
Charles Krauthammer
Contributed by Nina Calhoun
Content
Overview
Context
Themes
Reviews
Chapter Summaries
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Get 24/7
Homework help
Our tutors provide high quality explanations & answers.
Post question

Newest Questions

Chapter 4
Summary

In this chapter, Krauthammer finds a way to express his opinion of the breeds of dogs roaming in the current world. In particular, he seems more interested in the Border collie, the smartest breed among dogs. His concern is about the path taken by most Americans in making the dog breed a moron. Instead of thinking about the brains, many seem to care about the looks of the dog breed (Krauthammer 57). Due to this reason, they try to ensure that the dog looks good physically, and they end up robbing its intelligence. Similarly, other dog breeds such as the German Shepard continue to experience the same issue, with their genetics changed into something different from their ‘calling’ (Krauthammer 57). The author also talks a bit about politics in this chapter. Notably, he seems to think that President Bush had some insights on the 9/11 bombing even before it happened. It may be possible that the Saudis informed him before they made a move, but he kept mum for the sake of personal gains (Krauthammer 59).

Besides, the writer also talks about responsibility talking in the current world. He uses the example of Woody Allen–Mia Farrow who never takes part in his children’s life. Similarly, Krauthammer thinks that most Americans usually let other people show them how to live their lives (Krauthammer 62). Forgiveness and redemption also have a part in the chapter. A bank robber of the 60s resurfaces by surrendering to the police, after twenty-three years in hiding. The robber seems to think that her surrender serves as a way of redeeming herself from her messy life of the past (Krauthammer 63). The author also finds time to discuss art and morality. Natural childbirth and the importance of medicalized childbirth are of great significance in the US, and endangering the life of a child may put one in deep trouble (Krauthammer 68). Besides, Krauthammer prides himself in discussing the Jews, as he explains President Nixon’s concern for the community during his reign.

Analysis

When the author talks about dogs, President Bush and the Allen case, he shows how many people have left their responsibilities. Instead of doing the right thing, many individuals only think of themselves and end up hurting other people or creatures (Krauthammer 57). For instance, dog breeders have changed the natural order by seeking to please the dog owners. Besides, just like Allen, some parents never bother or care about their kids. Instead, many let other people raise the kids for them, and sometimes it backfires (Krauthammer 62). Despite that, the writer talks about redemption and forgiveness as a way of showing the reader there is always of a way of rewriting the wrongs, but it needs the individual’s efforts and self-forgiveness if it is to work at all. The discussion of natural childbirth is a means of educating Americans about the importance of seeking medical attention, especially during pregnancy and childbirth (Krauthammer 68). He also discusses the Jews and President Nixon’s involvement in protecting Israel to show how America minds about the prosperity of other nations, especially those with shared interests (Krauthammer 70).

<
Chapter 3
Chapter 5
>
info_outline
Have study documents to share about Things That Matter? Upload them to earn free Studypool credits!

Popular Book Guides