President Obama Won WHAT?!
Courtesy of the White House
On Friday, it was announced that the Norwegian Nobel Committee chose President Obama as their latest recipient of the coveted Nobel Peace Prize.
WHAT!?
I was shocked beyond belief. While, I support president and his policies, it really can’t be denied that he hasn’t done much in office as of yet. Everyone I’ve talked to agreed that this award seemed completely out of place and even frivolous.
Even President Obama was shocked, saying “To be honest, I do not feel that I deserve to be in the company of so many of the transformative figures who’ve been honored by this prize,” according to the New York Times.
The Nobel committee stood by their decision, stating a bunch of abstract and poetic reasons, basically saying that they were giving President Obama the award for what he represents, not what he’s accomplished.
I thought the award was supposed to be given to people who made a valid contribution to society, not made a bunch of promises that have yet to yield results.
The argument can be made that the committee is trying to make the award more relevant, more attainable. That notion is ridiculous. Its exclusivity is why it’s used to recognize excellence, not mediocrity.
It’s the Nobel Peace Prize. Stop handing it out like candy.
— Raya Tobler | VOX Staff
I completely agree with Sam on his position on your quote “The Nobel committee stood by their decision, stating a bunch of abstract and poetic reasons, basically saying that they were giving President Obama the award for what he represents, not what he’s accomplished.”
The NPP Committee were very clear, stating that they chose him because of the new tone he has set in international politics, NOT his specific policies. Sure as Americans we are looking at President Obama in a first-hand light. And sure, you are entitled to your opinion on whether he has been slow on putting his policies into place (which is a different argument for a different day.) However, how wonderful is it to see OUR president winning such a high and respected award worldwide? Mind you, I am not a NPP aficionado, but I don’t hear much about any and every international leader winning this award.
AND! For goodness sakes, why should he not accept the prize? He is donating all the prize money to charity! Whether or not you agree with his winning, he did. AND he has accepted the award with much humility. AND he is donating the $1 million dollar prize. Just these facts show the nobility that he possesses. At least in my opinion…
My annoyance comes with many youth (not anyone here specifically) annoyed with President Obama as though it was his decision. He never nominated himself for this award, so there is no reason to direct anger at him. Whether or not you are happy about, be proud of the man! Not every Tom, Dick, and Harry has this award. That’s for sure.
Very well said, Ayanna! I share your views. Congrats President Obama!
Mr. President has done some exceptional work towards peace. But to get Nobel prize within a span of 8 months of being elected as President is something exceptional.