Write an essay that defends, challenges, or qualifies Sanders' ideas about the relationship between the individual and society in the United States.
The meaning of the word “community” has come to have a much different definition than it once did. No longer does it apply to only physical neighbors, but instead it means any group of people who come together at a given time. With the feeling of community comes a sense of identity, which rids and individual of anonymity. Though he never directly says so, it is apparent Sanders believes all people need the close relationships and accountability of a community in order to lead a fulfilling life.
Several types of influential communities exist. Firstly, the “Mom and Dad” community. As Sanders stated, everyone “…knows the exhilaration of slipping away from the watchful eyes of Mom and Dad.” This type of community helps develop a responsible individual, one who helps will not be a “burden or threat” to others.
Secondly, one can be a part of a community of friends. These friends can be “...just passing through, or… care about no one’s needs but their own…” this community helps the individual develop a sense of personal identity. As the psychologist Erik Erikson theorized, one cannot lead a “successful life” if an identity is not developed in adolesence.
Though community is a wonderful ideal, anonymity is sometimes needed. Everyone needs a time to relax and enjoy “…the sense of liberation that comes with journeying to a place where nobody expects anything from you.” While community builds character it is necessary that character be allowed to sink in, somewhere with no expectations, assumptions, or responsibilities.
As Sanders stated, community is “the many threads tugging at you while also holding you upright.” This is a valid point, except for the idea that sometimes, one needs to fall in order to learn. But once that individual has fallen, the community will be right there once again
Several types of influential communities exist. Firstly, the “Mom and Dad” community. As Sanders stated, everyone “…knows the exhilaration of slipping away from the watchful eyes of Mom and Dad.” This type of community helps develop a responsible individual, one who helps will not be a “burden or threat” to others.
Secondly, one can be a part of a community of friends. These friends can be “...just passing through, or… care about no one’s needs but their own…” this community helps the individual develop a sense of personal identity. As the psychologist Erik Erikson theorized, one cannot lead a “successful life” if an identity is not developed in adolesence.
Though community is a wonderful ideal, anonymity is sometimes needed. Everyone needs a time to relax and enjoy “…the sense of liberation that comes with journeying to a place where nobody expects anything from you.” While community builds character it is necessary that character be allowed to sink in, somewhere with no expectations, assumptions, or responsibilities.
As Sanders stated, community is “the many threads tugging at you while also holding you upright.” This is a valid point, except for the idea that sometimes, one needs to fall in order to learn. But once that individual has fallen, the community will be right there once again