We begun the class by exploring the values and beliefs that many Americans subscribe to and that shape our general society and culture. Clearly, many of them that exist aren’t exactly in the best interest of the entirety of the population; in fact, some are even problematic.
You were presented with a list of readings, each by an author who intended to challenge at least one of those generally held beliefs–work orientation/hustle culture, equality, materialism, marriage, and conventional beauty standards, among others.
After working with the reading that you selected, you created a summary-response essay, in which you summarized that author’s main points and responded in a way that incorporated your own perspective on the author’s topic. You were specifically asked to think about what value the author was challenging, and how you felt about it.
Now, it’s time to take that response and build upon it until it is a full-fledged research paper. Use it as a foundation for your answer to the research question.
Prompt:
What is one commonly held value or belief in American society that you feel needs to be challenged, reimagined, is lacking in substance, or perhaps doesn’t truly reflect how Americans live their lives? Why?
