Social Conformity In Society

Societies that esteem social conformity view defiance as a by-product of insolence rather than an act of courage. Isolation of individuals that do not abide by the set restrictions is another common characteristic of systems that encourage mob mentalities. As a result, in order to be accepted by peers, individuals often have to function based on societal expectations. Some consider pursuing their own opinions and ideas against the social norms. This often garners backlash and hostilities from other members of society, ranging from physical and verbal abuse to denial of individual’s competence and sanity to complete alienation from society. Although some people are able to champion their freedom of expression and right to opinions over the need

The society in “brad carrigan, american” from George Saunders’ satirical short story emphasizes the dangers of social conformity to individual identity. Saunders’ character Brad Carrigan exemplifies how lone deviation from social conformity is akin to social suicide, leading to a loss in social standing and eventual exile; although his personal revolt allows him to escape the moral decay of his show, he is unable to retain his humanity proving isolated resistance futile in the end. The extremely disturbing characterization of modern media culture also highlights the extent of the perils of societal arrogance and

He defines the show as “getting dumber” and “meaner” and how the present prevailing violence was occupied with complex discussions about Brad and Doris’ hopes and dreams for the future. He reminisces about his sentimental moments with Doris and how she used to be as compassionate and how she used to organize community events and volunteer, claiming “That was Doris.” The current Doris in contrast, is exceedingly selfish. She exasperatedly berates Brad for sheltering the corpses claiming their physical pain is lesser than her emotional distress over a dirty porch. She continues to rant about how his shortcomings has forced to “[live] the wrong life.” This comment accuses Brad’s compassion for the morphing backyard and emphasizes the importance of conformity for Doris to appear normal as she lists off neighbors that are perfectly assimilated. Brad momentarily loses confidence in his pursuit of compassion in fear of losing Doris but regains confidence as he truly believes that if speaks of his idea in a vibrant and entertaining manner Doris will revert back to her generous self. Saunders thereby highlights how an individual’s altruism is also an omnipresent force although futile since Brad is “locked out” thus symbolizing his displacement as a main