Cultural And Social Norms: Film Analysis

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The structure of society and the way people function is established on cultural and social norms; from the way a person lives on the micro level to how a nation runs on a macro level. Historians have documented many perfect examples of this idea. For example, Rosa Parks in 1955, was the racial activist that stood up against cultural norms. An example of the present day could be found in the documentary Gifted Hands written by John Pielmeier. He gives tribute to Ben Carson, an African-American male, born into poverty. He refused being told by society what his life would entail. Carson faced racism, stereotypes, and violence to become a profound neurosurgeon at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Through Gifted Hands, we see how Carson overcome social and …show more content…
Yale was a predominately white populated university. Due to racism, equality in the education gap was monstrous. Cultural norms created this idea of “diversity among race.” That it is wrong to allow African-American achievers to attend these types of institutes. Carson felt looked down upon and scrutinized by fellow classmates. In the Harvard Educational Review, Shawn R. Harper mentioned, “Black undergraduate men are often among the most stereotyped populations in higher education” (646). He explains people are undermining the academic success of certain minorities because of the color of a person’s skin. He continues, “Racial Stereotypes are common on many campuses, that their effects are usually psychologically and academically hazardous” (674). Social and cultural norms have created guidelines to living within society. Carson and many African-Americans have felt some type of prejudice while attending “White Colleges.” Carson broke the cycle of society and refused to follow societies rules. His life gave many other underestimated African-Americans the courage to attend college. His message also impacted many diverse communities’ and changed children’s perspective on life. It gave hope to the African-American youth. Societal standards contributed to major problems within the professional medical

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