<p>Prompt: Traditionally, the term "heroism" has been applied to those whop braved physical danger to defend a cause or to protect others. But one of the most feared dangers people face is that of disapproval by family, peers, or community. Sometimes acting courageously requires someone to speak out at the risk of such rejection. We consider those who do so true heroes.</p>
<p>[Indent] Social acceptability is an important factor of psychological peace and serenity. Those who risk this acceptance, and decide against conformity in favor of a cause are considered true heroes. Examples from modern Egyptian history and a personal anecdote confirm this thesis.</p>
<p>[Indent] Referring to the recent Egyptian uprising that overthrew ousted Egyptian president Mubarak, many youths abandoned traditional beliefs of complete obedience towards leaders. The most prominent of these may very well be Wael Ghoneim. Wael administers a page on the famous social network "Facebook". Through it, he lighted the spark of the Egyptian revolution. He went against all his peers and family members to satisfy a greater cause: Democracy and freedom. As a result, Wael played a significant role in the success of the Egyptian revolution. He may have risked his social status, and the public's opinion towards him, but nonetheless, he succeeded in being a major factor of the revolution. The term 'hero' most certainly applies here.</p>
<p>[Indent] Confirming the thesis is a personal anecdote that I present. Back in primary school, it was considered blasphemy to question an authority's stipulations. My teacher insisted that teaching was most expedient without discussion. He believed that everyone was to stay quiet and ask no questions. This, of course, is a common erroneous method of teaching in Egypt. I decided not to conform however. I protested against this so-called fool-proof policy, and asserted that learning reached its epitome only through give and take or discussion. Consequences occurred, and I was severely punished for my "blatant insolence." However, my point was grasped, and as a result, my school principal considered my suggestion and put it into effect from that day on. This goes to prove, that indeed, those who go against conformity for the sake of a cause, are considered the true heroes.</p>
<p>[Indent] It becomes evident that indeed the term 'hero' can only be justifiably applied to those who risk rejection for the sake of a greater cause. We can consider those who do so the true heroes.</p>
<p>PS. (That looked a lot bigger on paper :/)</p>