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Optimism And Pessimism Of Myths Essay

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Optimism and Pessimism of Myths
Myths are stories passed down from generations which surround our society and determine true or false concepts. A notion is established within a myth to indicate a specific story and idea. Well-known myths, such as the 'Myth of the Model Family' and the 'Myth of Education and Empowerment,' provide a representation of ideas that have exceeded the strength of time. These complex, yet simple, myths represent a diverse range of opinions within society since they've been molded and have transformed over the period of time. “Rereading America” offers different perspectives from a variety of authors regarding these particular myths. The opinionated narratives mentioned in the text prove that these common myths have the ability to influence society in many ways. Regardless of the variety of influence, the authors portray their viewpoints by displaying how the myths can form a common understanding among a people. While these myths create a …show more content…
It defines equality and reassures that the American dream is achievable. Education has the ability to empower, to deposit confidence into an individual, and control that individual’s very judgment. Some believe that education is the universal tool that builds society while others consider it as a binding which disables a person to envision and challenge their individuality. Horace Mann was a very respectable, man who is a perfect example of an American who endeavored to classify the myth of empowerment through the use of education. His belief of having an “optimistic view of education as a means of social mobility in a democratic state provides a clear statement of the myth of personal empowerment through education,” (Mann 108) circles around how education will be a weapon against enemies that threaten society. Furthermore, it’s a tool that holds

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