"J.M.'s Question" is a song by John Cougar Mellencamp, also known as John Mellencamp, released in 1989 as part of his album "Big Daddy." The song reflects on the various issues and problems in the world, questioning the state of society and the choices people make. The lyrics depict a world where the environment is polluted, the food is unhealthy, and the water is not safe to drink. There is a sense of dismay as the protagonist observes the negative consequences of human actions, such as the ozone layer depletion causing cancer and the mistreatment of children by babysitters. The song also touches upon political and social issues. It mentions the threat of violence with the warning of "No trespassing will blow your brains out" and references Live Aid and Farm Aid, two charitable initiatives aimed at addressing global hunger and supporting farmers. Mellencamp criticizes the hypocrisy of religious leaders who recite verses without genuine understanding and highlights the challenges faced in the healthcare industry, where doctors and lawyers prioritize profits rather than helping those in need. The recurring lines "What kind of world do we live in when everything we do turns out so wrong?" and "What kind of world do we live in when eleven and seven equals two?" convey a sense of frustration and confusion about the state of society. These lines suggest a disbelief in the irrationality and contradictions that exist in the world. In essence, "J.M.'s Question" expresses Mellencamp's concerns about the state of the world, raising important questions about societal values, environmental issues, hypocrisy, and the failure to make positive changes. It serves as a social commentary and an invitation for listeners to reflect on their own actions and the impact they have on the world.
