<p>This is my first practice essay. Quick grading and comments are appreciated, thanks!
Prompt:
Sometimes it is necessary to challenge what people in authority claim to be true. Although some respect for authority is, no doubt, necessary in order for any group or organization to function, questioning the people in charge -- even if they are experts or leaders in their fields -- make us better thinkers. It forces all concerned to defend old ideas and decisions and to consider new ones. Sometimes it can even correct old errors in thought and put an end to wrong actions.
It is important to question the ideas and decisions of people in positions of authority? Plan and write an essay in which you develop your point of view on this issue. Support your position with the reasoning and examples taken from your reading, studies, experience, or observations.
Essay:
Leadership is a crucial defining quality to any authoritative figure(s). While necessary for any hierarchy to function, those below have the right and duty of questioning authoritative actions. In politics, the concept of Sousveillance mandates that in order for any good governing body to be properly transparent and truly be 'of the people,' the people have just as much if not more so the right to know happenings of government as the government has to know about the people in order to protect and serve them. This idea addresses the historical pattern of power leading to corruption. From bribed politicians to delusional dictators, power can easily go to the head(s) of the leading figures(s). Intention can be twisted to favoring the retainment of said power rather than the default motives native to any authoritative position. In this way credibility can be lost and transparency is necessary. Inquiry in the first driving action to the attainment of knowledge. Driven by natural curiosity most have, inquiry is the first step in challenging the status quo, decisions, or general statements made by those who are presumed to be the authority on a matter. Logically, either assuming something to be true or dismissal on the same grounds, taking was is put out as fact without regard for evidence other than the authoritative figure's stance is irresponsible and fallacious. The burden of proof is always on the creator of a claim. "Ad hominem" refers to this fallacy of dismissing something due to some circumstance applying to the one who made the statement, and it works in reverse wherein nothing should be blindly followed without evidence regardless of the source. It is of the greatest importance to question authority as it improves thinking, improves life, and advances knowledge.</p>