Inherent in this attitude lies the idea that the individual has definite control of him/herself at all times, without regard to pressures and influences from differing elements in society, for example, friends, family and co-workers. ... The arrogance of Self-Reliance and Civil-Disobedience establish a foundation in both American identity and literature, one which not only serves to form popular conceptions of morality in America but also, and more meaningfully to exclude all those who are not white, male, property owners or businessmen. ...

• Word Count: 1633
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: Undergraduate