Take a position that explains if, and to what degree, modern American culture is an outgrowth of the philosophies of the Founding Fathers.
I agree that American culture is an outgrowth of the philosphies of the founding fathers. I have one reason and that is redemptive violence. I need to more.
You need to do two things before you can even plan this essay or speech. If you just write "off the top of your head" you'll have a mess. This will take research and planning.
First, read lots about the philosophies of the US's founding fathers:
http://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS705US707&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=philosophies+of+founding+fathers&*
Then, list what YOU BELIEVE are aspects of "American culture" and for which time period (now? the early 1800s? the late 1800s? or when)
Once you have all that, you'll be able to plan what you will write.
(PS. I have no idea what "redemptive violence" is. If you continue with that, be sure to explain the concept thoroughly.)
To further explore the extent to which modern American culture is an outgrowth of the philosophies of the Founding Fathers, it is important to consider additional aspects beyond redemptive violence.
One way to gather more information is to examine primary sources directly from the Founding Fathers themselves. This can include their writings and letters, such as the Federalist Papers, biographies, and compilations of their speeches and debates. By studying these primary sources, you can gain insights into their values, principles, and intentions, which can help establish a clearer connection between their philosophies and contemporary American culture.
Another approach is to examine the impact of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights on contemporary American society. These founding documents are the cornerstone of American governance and reflect the principles and ideals that the Founding Fathers believed in. By understanding how these documents have shaped U.S. society, you can better assess the influence of the Founding Fathers on the development of American culture.
Moreover, exploring the evolution of American political discourse and ideology is crucial. Comparing the ideas put forth by the Founding Fathers to current political debates, policies, and public sentiment can shed light on the degree to which their philosophies continue to impact modern society. One could consider how concepts of limited government, individual liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, among others, have persisted or adapted over time.
It is also essential to acknowledge the complexities and diversity of American culture. While the Founding Fathers' philosophies may have laid the groundwork, American culture has grown and evolved through various influences, including immigration, multiculturalism, social movements, technological advancements, and global interconnectedness. Understanding these factors can provide a more nuanced perspective on the relationship between the Founding Fathers and modern American culture.
In summary, to thoroughly assess the extent to which modern American culture is an outgrowth of the philosophies of the Founding Fathers, examining primary sources, understanding the impact of foundational documents, analyzing contemporary political discourse, and considering the broader context of American society will provide a more comprehensive and informed perspective.