The Ever-Changing Labels of Society: How Shifting Definitions Affect Individuals and Their Lives

Essay #3—on Theme #3: Government and Society
Directions for the essay:
Fraser’s essay “The Inner Corset” explores the changing definition of what it means to be beautiful. The pieces about gender in the classroom define “feminization of the classroom.” Think of another term that is used to describe or label individuals—a term whose definition has changed over the last century. Write an essay in which you explore how the changing definition has affected the way individuals think about themselves and others, as well as how they live their lives. For example, you might consider the changing definitions of terms such as educated, successful, middle-class, or well-traveled.
Please, no slang or derogatory terms. When in doubt, check with me first.
You may want to refer to one of the readings in your own essay (though not required), and if you do, be sure to cite when you use an idea which isn’t your own. Again, see MLA format in your text or look up the basics on OWL at Purdue’s writing lab.
Government and Society is a broad theme that parallels well with the cause and effect rhetorical strategy.  This theme can be used as a backdrop to more specific discussions on education, the environment, the economy, health care, peace and war, and social class (to name a few). A study of this theme prompts us to focus on the changing world: evolving societal and political, and economic trends and whether our current status (nationally, globally, etc.) today is better or worse than that of previous generations. Of course, there are ties here to the other themes—the Human Condition, Technology and Communication, and it will also lend itself well to discussions on the next theme, Ethics and Morality.