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  • Essay / Literary analysis of Paul Loeb's book, The Soul of a Citizen

    It seems that cynicism is all around us. The evening news, daily articles on the Internet and social media always present a new, cynical view of almost every world event. Loeb addresses cynicism in chapter four of Soul of a Citizen by detailing the main reason we have a cynical view of the world. Loeb concludes: “We lose hope before we even begin.” (83) when it comes to how the general population feels about participating in community events. Those who can overcome the feeling of hopelessness can get involved in their community and make a change. I think it is sometimes difficult to overcome the constant cynical message we are given daily, but everyone must try. If you never try, you will never succeed. It's that simple. Those who overcome cynicism will succeed while those who don't will have already given up before they even try. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Loeb also discusses populations considered replaceable or nearly invisible. Most of these populations are quite broad: elderly people, minorities (African Americans, Latinos, Asians, etc.) and people with disabilities. There are also smaller groups, such as the fatally ill, the homeless or the poor. All of these “replaceable” groups can be found across the country, even in the Wilkes-Barre area. Our local area includes some of the different smaller groups such as the homeless. These groups tend to receive the cynical smile of those who belong to a higher economic class or better social position. Instead of being cynical towards these groups, those who enjoy a better position in society should give back to the community and to those who are less fortunate or have found themselves falling on hard times. Because of this cynical message that we Americans receive daily, we tell ourselves that nothing can be done to change the world. This view is simply false. Every person has the chance to change the world if they have the right vision and determination to make that change. I try to be as positive as possible in every situation I find myself in. I know from experience that it is sometimes very difficult to maintain a positive attitude in the face of a difficult situation. With the right attitude, anything is possible and can lead to incredible results. Sometimes a goal is truly impossible to achieve, but many things can be accomplished just by trying. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay When we step back and examine our circumstances we all live in a cynical world. Although the world may make it seem like it is difficult to get involved in the community, this is actually not the case. One person's positive attitude is contagious and can spread to others, making the impossible possible. Loeb Quote: “I believe most of us want to live with compassion, move beyond cynicism, and help shape a better world. » (100) shows what most people think about the world. Contrary to what the media and others say, every goal is worth pursuing, not because you will achieve it, but because you didn't give up before you started..