<p>I was just wondering what you guys (or any official graders, if there are any around) think of this essay. If you could give me a number and then a reason why, that'd be great. Here it is:</p>
<p>The prompt: Can a society be defined by its popular culture?</p>
<p>A society's culture is made up of many things. Geographical location, social cognition, or political status are all components of a society's identity. However, one of the strongest means of determining a society's identity can be seen in its popular culture. In American society, these values can be seen in the music we listen to, the entertainment we view, and the products we use.</p>
<p>American society has, without a doubt, become questionable in terms of what values we hold. This can be seen in our music. Popular music consists predominantly of rap and hip-hop; rock, jazz, blues, etc. have been left behind. This can be seen as a natural thing, at first glance, as society constantly changes its preferences. However, these preferences are usually for the better, and this is not the case currently. With rap and hip-hop came the use of the synthesizer over actual instruments. Rap and hip-hop also rarely employ singing, and when they do, it is often thoroughly digitally enhanced. Without instruments and vocals, music loses its artistic value, and becomes, simply, a means of entertainment and profit. The current music trend shows America's society's ability to be easily entertained.</p>
<p>Additionally, American society has declined in terms of film. Artistic movies with symbolism and meaning have become few and far between, while slap-stick comedies and gory horror films have become more prevalent than ever. People can, essentially, "turn off their brains" and be entertained. Films today illustrate society's dislike of intellectual thought.</p>
<p>Finally, American society can be seen in our products. Every year, more weight loss supplements are invented, while proper diet and exercise are frowned upon. We create more means of being lazy. American products demonstrate our tendency to seek the easy way out, rather than put in the hard work.</p>
<p>In conclusion, the values of American society are clearly evident in our popular culture. Whether it be our music that keeps us easily entertained, our films that do not force us to think, or our products that promote laziness, our society shows us for what we are, good or bad.</p>
<p>Towards the end I ran out of room, and had to start getting to the point quicker, lol. I hope that doesn't make it any worse</p>
I won’t be offended</p>