For such an interesting time in my life, I'm glad I've found a book that adds just that much more complexity to my thoughts. The Autobiography of Malcolm X is probably one of the greatest (philosophy) books that I have read thus far simply because it's a guide to why and what Mr. X feels. When hearing why someone feels the way the do, it eliminates all disrespect, close-mindedness and bias from my opinions on their feelings. This was the only way that Mr. X could have gone about writing this book and sharing his story, simply because it's so different from any other person's experience, and very different from the popular philosophy as well. Without people relating to a theory that is not backed up very clearly, it provides no paved path to taking what is being displayed into consideration. So that's my opinion on the format of the book.
The context of the book is something that nobody can really read and forget. Reading everything he has to say about his life makes me understand completely where his thoughts developed from, but I still don't agree with them. I am aware of the time period, setting, all of that, but in no situation is it okay to call the "enemy" the devil in a serious matter. The only thing this can lead to is even more hatred in a society... the last thing America needed. It's also very unfair to those people who are making a conscious effort to work against the oppressions, and it will ultimately lead to nobody wanting to fight for peace, equality and the rightful treatment of others.
I'm also very opposed to the idea that one's suffering is brought upon them by others. Yes, there are those people (or groups of people) who are actually out to get you, but the point is to figure out how to overcome the adversities and thrive regardless. That's life. Once you start to blame others for the things that happen to you, there is no growth. It leads to excuse after excuse after excuse, until everything is taken from you. I believe that Mr. X had some grasp on this idea, but he wasn't presenting it to those who followed him. This was a dangerous path to run, especially while promoting the idea of violence and rebellion.
One thing I can't understand is Mr. X's subtle constant need to have someone to look up to. This leads me to believe that he doesn't like being in total control of situations, even his own. He is very influenced, but this characteristic has helped him relate to the others blacks who have been "brainwashed" their whole lives. It kind of seems like he's working off of what "White America" has produced... interesting...
