Insights and any comments at all would be much appreciated
Prompt:
Claim: It is no longer possible for a society to regard any living man or woman as a hero.
Reason: The reputation of anyone who is subjected to media scrutiny will eventually be diminished.
Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
My response:
A “hero, is not necessarily a perfect human being who is without flaws and beyond reproach, and this is true both in the past, and even today. Despite the increase of media scrutiny that focuses on the character flaws and imperfections of the rich and famous in our society, heroes still exist, whether it is the celebrities, or even the “heroes” who perform notable and laudable deeds in our everyday lives.
The claim proposes that it is no longer possible for a society to regard any living man or woman as a hero, which implies that it once was. The reason for this change, according to the claim, is because of media scrutiny, as the reputation of anyone who is subject to such scrutiny is diminished. Although such a claim is not without basis, as the media today is famous for honing on the sins and unwholesome lifestyles of celebrities, I believe that such a statement goes too far. The term, “every living man or woman” is all encompassing, and although media may damage the reputations of the famous, who are constantly followed by paparazzi, the media does not even touch those who perform good and noteworthy deeds in our every day lives – the local fireman, for example, who saves lives and puts out fires in our neighborhood, or the veterinarian, who heals our sick pets and takes care of stray animals. Sure, these workers may have their imperfections as well, but that is what makes them human; and that fact alone doesn’t stop others from looking up to them as a role model or hero.
In addition, even the celebrities themselves, although affected by the media, are not necessarily prevented from rising to “hero” status in the eyes of society. Every day, because of contemporary media, new stories come up about new celebrities’ private lives – another affair, another actor cheating on his girlfriend, another singer found to be abusing drugs. And yet, despite celebrities’ clear flaws, there are still tons of fans that idolize and adore them, and elevate them to the status of their “hero” or “role model.” Just look at the Instagram account of Justin Bieber – who has done more “stupid” things in the past two years than anyone I know in real life – cheat on his girlfriend (multiple times), get arrested for driving while intoxicated, etc. and yet each of Justin Bieber’s Instagram photos receive thousands upon thousands (or even millions) of likes – and all his “Beliebers,” as is the term given to his fans, practically worship him, making him their role model or hero, despite the media’s negative portrayal of his life, and despite his own personal flaws.
In the end, lthough it is true that the media can reveal imperfections, that does not prevent people today from rising up to the status of a “hero. ” Therefore, despite the pervasiveness of media scrutiny, it is not at all true that there can no longer be any “heros” in today’s society.