'Explain why it is important for you to be able to say what you think. Include details that show how people form their opinions. Support your ideas with examples from 'Darkness At Noon' by Harold Krents and 'Homeless' by Anna Quindlen.'
I reallyyy need help with this assignment; can someone please give me some ideas? I got a reply yesterday, but I still need some more help understanding.
Thanks
-MC
MC. People form opinions based on many things....ie, classes they take, their parents opinions, their friends opinions, what it is popular to think, experience, how they feel at that particular moment, past actions, sensory responses. Great jumping horned toads... it can even be on the flip of a coin....
You have to look at those stories and decide what influences the people in them.
Certainly, MC! I'd be happy to help you with your assignment.
When considering the importance of being able to say what you think, it is essential to understand how people form their opinions. People's opinions are influenced by various factors such as personal experiences, societal norms, and exposure to different perspectives.
In "Darkness At Noon" by Harold Krents and "Homeless" by Anna Quindlen, both authors provide examples of how personal experiences shape opinions. Krents, who became blind at a young age, describes the prejudice and discrimination he faced due to his disability. This firsthand experience allows Krents to develop strong opinions about the need for equal rights and accessibility for disabled individuals. Similarly, Quindlen writes about the experiences of homeless people in her essay "Homeless," trying to shed light on the struggles faced by this marginalized community. By sharing these stories, Quindlen encourages readers to reevaluate their opinions on the homeless and challenge societal assumptions.
Additionally, societal norms play a significant role in shaping people's opinions. In "Darkness At Noon," Krents provides an example of how societal expectations affected his own perception of his abilities. Due to prevailing stereotypes about blindness, Krents initially believed that he was incapable of achieving success. It is only through challenging these societal norms and expressing his true thoughts and abilities that he is able to overcome these limitations and achieve personal and professional growth.
Furthermore, exposure to different perspectives is crucial in forming well-rounded opinions. Quindlen emphasizes this in "Homeless" by presenting various stories of homeless individuals from different backgrounds. By sharing their diverse experiences, she demonstrates that homelessness is not solely a result of personal failures, but can be influenced by systemic issues such as poverty, joblessness, and lack of affordable housing. These differing perspectives challenge readers to reassess their preconceived notions and form more informed opinions.
In conclusion, being able to say what you think is important because it allows you to express your individual perspective, shaped by personal experiences, societal norms, and exposure to diverse viewpoints. By exploring these elements in "Darkness At Noon" and "Homeless," Krents and Quindlen provide valuable insights into how opinions are formed and why it is essential to have the freedom to express them.
I hope this helps you with your assignment, MC! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.