You're still using the system ruby install (1.8). To use the Ruby you've just installed with rvm, do rvm use 1.9.2 . Then try gem install rails again.
The Rails gem should be installed under your home directory, you shouldn't need root permissions.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.