Introduction
Thesis Statement: The news media’s idea of a hero is not much different from regular people’s; in fact, media can help shape ideas of what constitutes a hero.
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Supporting Evidence: Heroes are classified as personal or private figures we know who handle difficult circumstances with courage, dignity and patience (Dopta, 2012).
- The word ‘hero’ often means people who are successful at their sport or job, or who distinguish themselves in some way (Kaminsky, 2004; Rucynski, 1998).
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- The characteristics of a hero are often those shared by parents and role models (Florez, 2004).
- As people get older, the definition of a hero becomes more in line with admirable traits in human beings (White and O’Brien, 1999).
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Supporting Evidence: The media often places these traits into superheroes, which form the early basis for what children consider heroes (White and O’Brien, 1999).
- News stories highlight heroic soldiers or public relations stories that showcase the differences people make in each other’s lives (Florez, 2004; Kaminski, 2004).
Conclusion
Thesis Statement: Both the news media and the general public view heroes as selfless figures who set great examples for their peers, whether through service, selflessness or excellence.
References
Dopta, A. (12 Mar 2012). Heroes: What would we do without them? The Guelph Mercury: A.
Drucker, S.J. and Cathcart, R.S. (1994) American heroes in a media age. VNR AG.
Florez, J (14 June 2004). Dad was my teacher, my support – my hero: Deseret News: A15.
Kaminsky, M (Feb 2004). Who is a Hero: Highlights for Children 59.2: 40-41.
Rucynski, J. (Summer 1998). What is a Hero: Army Reserve Magazine 44.1: 2.
White, S.H.; O’Brien, J.E. (Mar 1999). What is a Hero: An exploratory of students’ conceptions
of heroes. Journal of Moral Education 28.1: 81-95 .
