<p>Thanks in advance! SAT scale, please.</p>
<p>Prompt: Is it important to question the ideas and decisions of people in positions of authority?</p>
<p>Essay:
The decisions of people in authority are invariably partisan and it is necessary to challenge such opinions if power is abused It is imperative that authority be questioned to expose the truth in situations. This is shown in science, history, and literature through Thomas Young, the Dorr Rebellion, and To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.</p>
<p>In the early 20th century, most of the scientific community believed that light was composed of particles called photons. These ideas, proposed by Isaac Newton, were common truths, postulates that were simply accepted. However, when Young performed his double slit experiment, proving light was a wave, his results were ignored and his conclusions condemned. Despite this, Young’s challenge of the revered Newton’s theories introduced a new way of thinking, which brought along many advocates. Through his questioning of supposed truths in the authority-filled Newton, Young revolutionized a new era in science.</p>
<p>In addition, Thomas Door in Massachusetts, during the early 19th century, challenged the viewpoints of his state government. A small backcountry landowner, Dorr fought against his state’s suffrage policies and attempted to broaden the franchise by allowing all white males to vote, not only taxpayers. By questioning the constitutionality of the MA government, Dorr brought along a rebellion that would change the franchisement in the entire Union. Despite his rebellion being relatively unsuccessful in MA, Dorr’s challenge of authority brought new ideas to the American public.</p>
<p>Finally in To Kill a Mockingbird, the deuterogonist Atticus Finch, a lawyer in a small, quaint Southern town, pledges allegiance and defends the prosecuted Robinson, who is acussed of rape, but is persecuted because of his skin color. In this court scene, Atticus challenges his town and the authorities own its prejudice towards a man of black skin. He questions the value of racial inequality in lieu of protecting moral situations. With this, Atticus raises awareness of the traumatized and racist town and teaches the people surrounding him the value of love and equality. By questioning his town’s white authority, Atticus seeks to educate people to be loving of everyone.</p>
<p>In the cases of Thomas Young, Thomas Dorr, and Atticus Finch, one can sense that, indeed, questioning authority promotes better thinking. By doing so, one can affect oneself and one’s surroundings to make good decisions.</p>
<p>Thanks again!</p>