Stasis Theory: Space Oddity

Although it is more difficult to identify specific aspects of stasis theory in a song, most of them are definitely present. In the case of Space Oddity, the astronaut was certainly a major phenomenon. It came out right before the Apollo 11 mission, at the height of the Space Race. The main character of the song, Major Tom, is a fictional character, but he represents the attitude towards astronauts at the time. The slow melody and minimization of lyrics serves to provide the audience a depiction of space. However, there is a slightly sinister ending as Major Tom gets lost in space. This shows the idea that space exploration might not be the purely good thing that was the prevalent thought at the time.

Stasis Theory: Kennedy

President Kennedy uses all the elements of stasis theory to make his argument to Congress. In the beginning of his speech, he uses definitions to make his argument more persuasive. By defining the space race as a battle "between freedom and tyranny", he makes it much harder to object to his cause. Then, he bluntly lays out the facts that the United States is losing the race, providing his reason for speaking. Already inherent in the concept of a battle, it goes almost without saying that this is a bad thing for the country. Kennedy adds a carrot by talking of the glory that would be associated with landing on the moon. The action and jurisdiction parts of stasis theory tie together very well in this instance. JFK requests Congress to approve more funds for space programs. He also reveals his vision of a man on the moon before the end of the decade.