You have one hour and a half to write one essay of at least 400 words in response to one of the following questions. Read the questions carefully and brainstorm ideas before you begin to write. Be sure to leave time to edit and proofread. Remember that the essay will be graded on these categories: clear thesis and supporting facts and quotations, organization, and the mechanics of words and sentences. You may use paper copies of articles and stories for references in order to include at least three quotations from different readings, specific details, and examples from the texts. You may add references to any of the three movies you saw in class.

QUESTION

You have one hour and a half to write one essay of at least 400 words in response to one of the following questions. Read the questions carefully and brainstorm ideas before you begin to write. Be sure to leave time to edit and proofread. Remember that the essay will be graded on these categories: clear thesis and supporting facts and quotations, organization, and the mechanics of words and sentences. You may use paper copies of articles and stories for references in order to include at least three quotations from different readings, specific details, and examples from the texts. You may add references to any of the three movies you saw in class.

Your introduction should state your thesis clearly, and each body paragraph should elaborate on and support that thesis using at least three references/ quotations. YOU MAY USE MOVIES BUT YOU MUST QUOTE FROM AT LEAST ONE READING. Proofread for readability. — Is there subject/verb agreement? Have you avoided fragments and/or run-ons?

Select one topic out of the following two.

1.When are the needs of society more important than those of an individual? Which is more important and why?

2.Are people basically good? If you believe they are, why do they sometimes commit cruel actions?

ANSWER

The Importance of Balancing Society’s Needs and Individual Rights

Introduction

In the ongoing debate between the needs of society and those of the individual, it is crucial to strike a balance that respects both perspectives. While society relies on the collective well-being of its members, individuals possess unique rights and desires. This essay will argue that although the needs of society hold significant importance, the rights and autonomy of individuals must not be overlooked. By exploring various texts and movies, we will gain insights into the complex dynamics between societal needs and individual rights.

Body Paragraph 1: Acknowledging Society’s Needs

Society functions as an interconnected web where the needs of its members are intertwined. As stated by Rousseau in “The Social Contract,” individuals must surrender some freedoms to maintain order and ensure collective benefits. Moreover, the movie “Elysium” vividly portrays a dystopian society divided by wealth disparities, emphasizing the pressing need to address societal issues collectively (Bal, 2014). Quoting from the movie, “We can create a better world, but it will not be easy. It requires sacrifice.” Thus, society’s needs often arise from the necessity to foster social harmony and tackle shared challenges.

Body Paragraph 2: Upholding Individual Rights

While society relies on collective action, it must also protect the fundamental rights and autonomy of individuals. As stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, every person possesses inherent dignity and is entitled to specific liberties (Human Rights Principles, n.d.). Quoting from the declaration, “Everyone has the right to life, liberty, and security of person.” Furthermore, the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” highlights the significance of individual rights through Atticus Finch’s defense of Tom Robinson, challenging societal prejudice and standing up for justice. Therefore, safeguarding individual rights is crucial to maintaining a just and equitable society.

Body Paragraph 3: Balancing the Interests

To achieve a harmonious coexistence, striking a balance between societal needs and individual rights is vital. This balance requires open dialogue, compromise, and a commitment to fairness. The article “The Art of Compromise” underlines the importance of finding common ground, emphasizing that societal progress often stems from negotiating differing interests (Grillo, 2017). In the movie “The Pursuit of Happyness,” Chris Gardner’s struggle to overcome adversity showcases the determination of individuals to improve their lives while also contributing to society. Quoting from the movie, “You got a dream… you gotta protect it. People can’t do something themselves, they wanna tell you you can’t do it.” This highlights the significance of preserving individual aspirations within the larger social fabric.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a delicate balance must be struck between the needs of society and the rights of individuals. While society relies on collective efforts to address shared challenges, individuals possess inherent rights that should be respected. Through references to various texts and movies, we have explored the complexities of this relationship. By fostering open dialogue and compromise, we can create a society that acknowledges and addresses societal needs while ensuring the protection of individual rights. As we navigate the intricate dynamics between society and the individual, it is essential to remember that both are interconnected and mutually influential.

References

Bal, R. (2014). 1960’LARIN Rock Liriklerinde Romantik Ütopyacılığın Yeniden Canlanışı. Etu. https://www.academia.edu/90416905/1960_LARIN_Rock_Liriklerinde_Romantik_%C3%9Ctopyac%C4%B1l%C4%B1%C4%9F%C4%B1n_Yeniden_Canlan%C4%B1%C5%9F%C4%B1 

Grillo, R. (2017). INTERCULTURALISM AND THE POLITICS OF DIALOGUE. Sussex. https://www.academia.edu/35353089/INTERCULTURALISM_AND_THE_POLITICS_OF_DIALOGUE 

Human Rights Principles. (n.d.). United Nations Population Fund. https://www.unfpa.org/resources/human-rights-principles