pick 2

"Money power respect, the key to life, Money power respect what you need in life". Lyrics from a rap song during the 90 which frequented on the radio. The message is simple. First you get the money, then you get the power, after you get the power, then you get the respect. One things leads to another and its a simple routine. As I a kid, I vaguely understood the sentiments behind these lyrics. At the time, money power and respect seemed like three cohesive goals that fits naturally in ones aspirations. It made sense that money came first, as its the catalyst behind everything. Its what drives the other two, power and respect to their rightful places.

The thing that the song alludes to but never mentions is, what money power and respect all ultimately leads to. One would be quick to point out that all of these elements would lead to "happiness". Had the song actually contained the word happiness. I think it would have been shunned by everyone. The word happiness just seems too light hearted. It takes the edginess away from the song's pragmatic perspective. If Money power and respect is the key to life, then happiness means whatever you have to do to obtain money power and respect. This would include all practices, ethical or unethical, all options are on the table. In this regard, the song is extremely disturbing. And happiness seems to come at the expense of absurdity.