<p>Let me know what you guys think of this essay. Prompt is from November 2007 SAT for those curious. One main thing I'm concerned with is analysis so insight would be appreciated!</p>
<p>Prompt:
Is criticism -- judging or finding fault with the ideas and actions of others -- essential for personal well-being and social progress?</p>
<p>Essay:
Humans, by nature, are prideful creatures. This pride sometimes leads to hubris and an overinflated sense of self-worth. Thus, at times, criticism is necessary for positive ends -- however, too much criticism can lead destroy one's confidence. This principle is unequivocally expressed in my own observation.</p>
<p>Criticism is often times necessary for advancement. In the 1750s, Britain's colonial acquisitions in the Americas became resentful toward their overlords. As a result of large expenditures and economic hardship, the crown started taxing the colonists to help pay thir debt off. When met with resistance, King George III and Parliament ruthlessly punished the colonists through certain "Intolerable Acts" that limited the civil liberties of Americans. In response, the Continental Congress instructed Thomas Jefferson to draft a Declaration of Independence. This document enumerated the oppressive and asinine acts of King George III and criticized his vice and folly. It woulu be this that would inspire the American colonists to rebel and justify their cause as well-grounded. In 1783, subsequent to the Battle of Yorktown, Americans finally were recognized as an independent nation in the Treaty of Paris. Thus, a new nation was born, one that in the next 2 centuries would go on to become the dominant world superpower. This criticism of George III was necessary for societal advancement. It allowed colonists to reexamine their position in the empire and allowed them to realize the oppression they were subject to. Criticism, essentially, pointed out what was obvious but never truly grasped.</p>
<p>Excessive criticism, however, can lead to detrimental consequences. My cousin, Elly, was a particularly bright student who sought to be an attorney. However, as she studied at UCLA Law School, she faced unimaginable criticism from her fastidious professor. Nothing she did appeared to be right to him, and thus Elly's confidence was destroyed. The frequent criticism toward her work and intelligence translated to her unable to believe in herself, as cliche as it sounds. When she graduated and decided to take the BAR exam to obtain her license, she failed, not once, but twice. Her professor's unrelenting criticism had caused her to have no faith in herself and caused her to freeze up during the exam. Though intended as a motivator, the criticism caused unforeseen consequences. Had the professor been less abrasive and praised her at times, likely Elly would be a full-fledged attorney by now.</p>
<p>Criticism, though a benefit at times, can get out of hand if done excessively. After careful analysis of history and my own observation, it is evident, indeed that this is true. People today must realize the detriments of too much criticism and more attempt to give praise whi praise is due.</p>