Heroes have always played a significant role in shaping society and inspiring individuals to achieve greatness. However, the GRE ‘Analyze an Issue’ prompt raises a thought-provoking claim that it is no longer possible for any living man or woman to be regarded as a hero in contemporary society. The reason behind this assertion is the belief that the reputation of anyone who is subjected to media scrutiny will eventually be diminished. In this blog post, we will delve into the various arguments for and against this claim, exploring the extent to which it holds true in today’s world.
Understanding the Prompt
The prompt asserts that society can no longer consider any living individual as a hero due to the effects of media scrutiny. It suggests that the constant media attention and coverage of individuals’ lives eventually lead to the tarnishing of their reputation, making it impossible for them to be regarded as heroes. This raises questions about the role of the media in shaping public perception and the impact it has on individuals who are in the public eye.
Arguments in Favor of the Prompt
- The media has the power to manipulate public opinion and shape the narrative around individuals. With the rise of sensationalism and clickbait, the media often focuses on negative aspects of a person’s life, leading to a tarnished reputation.
- Many individuals who are regarded as heroes have faced public scrutiny and criticism, leading to a decline in their reputation. For example, Lance Armstrong, once hailed as a hero for his triumph in cycling, faced a major downfall after being accused of doping.
- With the emergence of social media, individuals are constantly under the spotlight, making it easier for any mistakes or flaws to be exposed and criticized.
Arguments Against the Prompt
- The definition of a hero is subjective and varies from person to person. While the media may portray an individual in a negative light, they may still be regarded as a hero by some.
- The media also has the power to elevate individuals to hero status through positive coverage and portrayal. For example, Malala Yousafzai, a young activist for female education, has been hailed as a hero by the media for her courage and determination.
- Individuals who are truly inspirational and have made a significant impact on society cannot be diminished by media scrutiny. Their actions and achievements speak for themselves and continue to inspire others, making them heroes in the eyes of many.
Example of a Perfect GRE Essay Response
In today’s society, the concept of heroism has become increasingly complex and fraught with controversy. The prevalence of media scrutiny has made it nearly impossible for any living individual to maintain a heroic reputation. While some may argue that this is a necessary consequence of our modern world, I ultimately agree with the claim that it is no longer possible for a society to regard any living man or woman as a hero.
The reason behind this claim lies in the overwhelming power of the media. With the rise of social media and 24-hour news coverage, the public is constantly bombarded with information about public figures, both positive and negative. In this age of instant gratification and sensationalism, any misstep or controversy is magnified and spread at lightning speed. As a result, even the most revered and respected individuals are not immune to the relentless scrutiny of the media.
One only needs to look at the downfall of once-beloved figures such as Lance Armstrong, Bill Cosby, and Harvey Weinstein to see the truth in this claim. These individuals were once hailed as heroes in their respective fields, but their reputations were ultimately tarnished by the media’s exposure of their wrongdoings. It seems that the higher the pedestal a person is placed on, the further they have to fall. With the constant scrutiny and pressure to maintain a perfect image, it is no wonder that even the most seemingly heroic individuals are bound to make mistakes.
Furthermore, the very definition of heroism has evolved in this media-driven society. With the rise of social media influencers and reality television stars, the concept of heroism has become diluted and distorted. Individuals who are famous simply for being famous are often heralded as role models and heroes, despite lacking any significant accomplishments or contributions to society. This further complicates the idea of what it means to be a hero and makes it nearly impossible for anyone to live up to the impossible standards set by the media.
Of course, some may argue that the media’s scrutiny is necessary in holding individuals accountable for their actions. While this may be true, the constant barrage of information and sensationalism often leads to a distorted and biased portrayal of individuals. In addition, the media’s focus on scandal and controversy often overshadows the true heroic deeds and contributions that individuals make. This only serves to further diminish the reputation of those who may still possess heroic qualities.
In conclusion, while the media’s scrutiny may serve a purpose in holding individuals accountable, it has also made it nearly impossible for any living person to maintain a heroic reputation. The constant bombardment of information and the evolving definition of heroism have made it challenging for individuals to live up to the impossible standards set by society. Therefore, I agree with the claim that it is no longer possible for a society to regard any living man or woman as a hero.
Why This Essay Earns a Perfect Score
This essay effectively argues for the claim that it is no longer possible for any living individual to be regarded as a hero in our society. The writer provides strong evidence to support this claim, using real-life examples and logical reasoning to explain the impact of media scrutiny on a person’s reputation. Additionally, the essay is well-organized and effectively addresses counterarguments, making it a strong and convincing piece.
Key Takeaways
One key takeaway from this essay is the power and influence of the media in our society. The writer effectively shows how the constant scrutiny and sensationalism of the media can greatly impact a person’s reputation, making it difficult for anyone to maintain a heroic image. Additionally, the essay highlights the evolving definition of heroism and how it has become distorted in the age of social media and reality TV.
Another takeaway is the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions. While the essay argues that the media’s scrutiny can often be biased and damaging, it also acknowledges the role it plays in bringing attention to important issues and holding individuals accountable for their wrongdoings. This highlights the need for responsible and ethical journalism in our society.
Overall, this essay effectively presents a strong argument and provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between heroism and media scrutiny in our modern society.