Challenging Notions of Exceptionalism: McCullough vs. Sierra

In David McCullough’s June 2012 Commencement Speech titled "You Are Not Special," he challenges the notion of individual exceptionalism, emphasizing that everyone shares commonalities and experiences that connect us all. While his message may initially come across as harsh to the graduating class, McCullough ultimately delivers a message of empowerment by highlighting the universality of human experiences. In contrast, Sierra's response in her article "Open Letter from a Millennial: Quit Telling Us We Are Not Special," published on June 25, 2012, criticizes McCullough's speech for its lack of relevance to the current generation of graduates.

Sierra argues that the real issues lie with the parents' generation and questions the value of a high school diploma in today's world.

Both McCullough and Sierra employ various rhetorical strategies to convey their messages effectively. One such strategy is the use of comparisons. Sierra draws parallels between the loss of childhood innocence, symbolized by the belief in the tooth fairy, and the realization of one's lack of specialness.

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She suggests that as we grow older, we come to understand that our uniqueness is not as pronounced as we once believed. Similarly, McCullough utilizes comparisons, such as likening a high school diploma to a marriage, to underscore the permanence and significance of this milestone in one's life.

Another persuasive technique employed by both McCullough and Sierra is the use of lists. Sierra employs lists to highlight the ways in which parents often contradict themselves, such as doing things for their children while simultaneously criticizing them for being lazy.

By presenting a series of examples, Sierra effectively conveys the complexities of parent-child relationships. In comparison, McCullough utilizes lists to emphasize the coddling and pampering that many young people experience, questioning whether they are adequately prepared for the challenges of the real world.

While both authors use comparisons and lists to strengthen their arguments, McCullough distinguishes himself by incorporating humor into his speech. By injecting moments of levity, McCullough is able to engage his audience and soften the potentially harsh message that "You Are Not Special" conveys. Humor serves as a bridge between the serious subject matter and the audience, making the speech more relatable and memorable.

Expanding on the themes presented by McCullough and Sierra, it is important to consider the broader implications of their messages. In a society that often places a premium on individual achievement and exceptionalism, both authors challenge us to reevaluate our understanding of what it means to be special. While McCullough's speech may prompt introspection and self-reflection, Sierra's response serves as a reminder of the societal structures and expectations that shape our perceptions of success and worth.

Ultimately, the dialogue between McCullough and Sierra invites us to consider the complexities of identity, belonging, and achievement in a world that often seeks to categorize and quantify our worth. By engaging with these contrasting perspectives, we are encouraged to reflect on our own experiences and beliefs, challenging us to think critically about the narratives that shape our understanding of ourselves and others.

References

• David McCullough’s June 2012 Commencement Speech