As the electronics age rages on, the majority of America’s society has become totally polarized in our understanding and implementation of basic civility and social etiquette. Never before have we been more apt to respond favorably to the socially disadvantaged as a greater mass, yet disregard the feelings and circumstances of the individuals that occupy our daily lives. This harsh yet thought provoking concept is explored in a satirical manner in the article “American Jerk” by writer Todd Schwartz. The majority of statements Schwartz’ makes in his article are accurate and could be considered almost factual. However, since he makes non-specific sweeping generalizations and only provides circumstantial evidence to prove his accusations; his prognosis of American society’s civility crisis should only be used as a general representation of behavioral tendencies in the United States.
The dialogue and tone of …show more content…
This is rather unfortunate since only societies “chosen victims” tend to be protected by this rule and any slight, intentional or other, can cause logic and reason to be tossed to the wayside in order to shelter their delicate egos. In Schwartz’ example, “a roomful of even relatively evolved people will react with discomfort to an off-color joke about people of color,” (para. 2) yet they will ignore others as they interact with their electronic devices. This defense of the ethnic minority is a great thing, yet it only occurs since our societies “etiquette” dictates that they should be defended, and anyone who does not follow the rules of Political Correctness are ostracized on the bases of fear. Consequently, we passively accept the rudeness of those around us as commonplace while we live in fear that our actions could bring the wrath of the Politically Correct society down upon our heads at any
The dialogue and tone of …show more content…
This is rather unfortunate since only societies “chosen victims” tend to be protected by this rule and any slight, intentional or other, can cause logic and reason to be tossed to the wayside in order to shelter their delicate egos. In Schwartz’ example, “a roomful of even relatively evolved people will react with discomfort to an off-color joke about people of color,” (para. 2) yet they will ignore others as they interact with their electronic devices. This defense of the ethnic minority is a great thing, yet it only occurs since our societies “etiquette” dictates that they should be defended, and anyone who does not follow the rules of Political Correctness are ostracized on the bases of fear. Consequently, we passively accept the rudeness of those around us as commonplace while we live in fear that our actions could bring the wrath of the Politically Correct society down upon our heads at any