The text “An Army of One: Me” explores the concept and evolution of the meaning behind “self”. Twenge states, “Your love for yourself... should be your ‘first love’” (Twenge 488); feeding a self desire is a natural occurrence ,and in many cases in our modern society, feeding this self-desire often involves breaking the law.
Furthermore, the text discusses the Baby Boomers and the culture of this generation in general as well as that of GenMe. Information regarding their background may aid in understanding their decisions. Jean Twenge even goes on to explain how “much of the ‘common sense’ advice that’s given these days includes some variation on ‘self’” (Twege 491). One of the statements states “What’s the good thing about your alcoholism / drug addiction / murder conviction? ‘I learned a lot about myself’” (Twenge 491). Although this has a slightly sarcastic tone, it does hold some truth. A lot of people fall into these addictions, not because they are criminally insane, but because they made a simple mistake, they’re emotionally lost, etc.. The stories behind the incarcerated vary heavily and no one crime can be pinpointed to one reason. There are near infinite reasons behind why an individual may choose to abuse illegal substances. The text further delves into the concept of self-esteem and its influence throughout development (as well as subconscious external influences on self-esteem) and this as well can play a role in the development of an addiction. Ultimately, it may be a complex series of events or simply one accident that leads one to the path of crime. The American justice system, fair in some ways, seems to have an unfair system of punishment. For example, possession of drug paraphernalia by a non-student near a school zone is given the same minimum sentence as 2nd degree manslaughter, 1st degree kidnapping (with or without firearm), 2nd degree assault with firearm, etc. (in the state of Connecticut). Overall there appears to be a heavy need for reevaluation of the justice system or the effectiveness of mass incarceration as a whole.
Twenge, J. “An Army of One: Me” The New Humanities Reader. 5th ed. Stamford, CT: Cengage, 2015. 486-511. Print.
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