Different Perspectives

Perspective is mainly defined as a "point of view". Although there are various definitions, this is the most common and broad. There are numerous points of view on every topic that exists. This is why society is so diverse. Various perspectives are seen in religion, politics, art, and everything else. Differences in religious perspectives have caused wars in countries, caused people to be crucified because their beliefs or perspective is different than the ruling power. Differences in political perspectives allows for multiple parties to exist, which in turn keeps the government in check. Art has countless perspectives because there is the perspective of the artist and a different perspective for every person that sees the piece of work. Innumerable perspectives can be found everywhere. They are the very reason for diversity.

A person's perspective defines them as a person; the opposite is also true. Who a person is and their environment and background define their perspective. Fireworks, for example, can be viewed as many things. A chemistry teacher sees fireworks as a chain of chemical reactions from start to finish. The chemistry teacher observes a different element burning depending on the color of the firework knowing that potassium creates a purple light when burned, or aluminum, titanium, and magnesium are all used to create a white light. A doctor or paramedic may dislike fireworks because they have been confronted with various injuries from the misuse of fireworks. An artist sees fireworks as a way of expressing a feeling in a medium of their choice, whether it be paint, pastels, or even photographs. A war veteran may have a very different perspective altogether. The war veteran sees a symbol of celebration of freedom that they have worked hard to secure. The veteran sees a celebration of lives of those who lost theirs serving their country to maintain freedom. The average person finds fireworks as a way to bond with family and feel patriotic on Independence Day. A person’s life and experiences mold their perspectives.

Perspective is a way of finding diversity in all walks of life. Whether it be religion or politics to a chemistry teach or a war veteran, varying perspectives exist. Society would be flat and uninteresting if everyone had the same perspective. Who we are defines our perspective and how we relate to others. Difference in perspective is what makes the world go round.



This was my admissions essay for BW.