Welcome to Animation & Beyond

Hi. Welcome to my blog. First, let me tell you a little about myself. I am Mina Nagy, an Egyptian 21-year old student who will be graduating this semester from the faculty of Mass Communication at Misr International University in Cairo.
I am sure you're saying at the back of your mind now: "What does a 21 year old guy have to do with cartoons? Aren't they supposed to be for 'kids'?"
Well, I tell you what: that's the reason why I made this blog. I adore cartoons and I believe that they are not just for kids. In fact, I believe that cartoons are more than just 'animation'. Every cartoon has a concept or even an ideology behind it. Even the very childish cartoons have a purpose. So, I think people should never underestimate cartoons and view them as something trivial and childish.
I have always loved to watch cartoons since I was a little kid. When I was four, my Mom and Dad took me to meet the headmaster of the school that I was about to join. When he asked me what I wanted to become when I grow up, I told him that I would like to "become like Uncle Scrooge, to fill trucks with gold". Guess what? I was accepted and joined the school because of that answer. Cartoons continued with me even in my university life. I conducted two extensive research studies about cartoons and their effects on children.
I made this blog not because I am a big cartoon fan or just someone who likes to watch cartoons. Many of us watch cartoons or pass by them. But few people look beyond these nice looking characters on the screen. This blog does not just offer pictures, screensavers, or video clips of nice cartoons and stuff. I mean I would love to do that but I believe that there are many websites that offer cool cartoon stuff. So, I think I should use this space to offer something new, or at least different, plus I don't want you to waste your time reading a routine blog.
This blog discusses what's behind cartoons: their content, effect, ideas conveyed in them..etc. Does this seem complex? Well, I think that if you read some of my posts here and start to look at cartoons with a different eye, then I could say that my blog made a difference. On my blog, you'll find posts about American, Japanese and even Arab cartoons. I am really waiting for your comments and opinions. How do you view cartoons? Do you think I am exaggerating and overdoing it? Or do you think I am somehow right? After all, cartoons are a form of art and everyone can see art differently. But even though we may have different opinions, it's always nice to discuss them together.
Welcome to Animation & Beyond! Please stop by every now and then, if you can and check some of the posts here. I hope you find it interesting and worth a couple of minutes from your time!