Blog Post 3

My audience would be focused on those who have personally struggled with, know some who has dealt with, or are simply curious about eating disorders. I want to make others aware of how our culture specifically influences our society to have the "perfect body".
This is undoubtedly an important topic to address as soon as possible, as eating disorders are a growing problem in our society. I do want people to be aware of the dangers, the influences, and many more topics involving eating disorders.
I have personally struggled with an eating disorder and do not want to see anyone go through the trials that it causes. If I can help even one person overcome or avoid acquiring an eating disorder, or even simply make others aware for that matter, then I will see myself as having adequately completed my project.
Looking at this from an objective perspective is extremely important, though difficult. If I cannot give an adequate, unbiased essay with reliable, accurate sources, then I will simply be manipulating others to see this in the same perspective as myself, which is not what I intend. I want my audience to know facts, not a college student's completely biased view of our culture's influence in eating disorders. Therefor, I understand why high school teachers would want this to be seen objectively. If I cannot look at the facts, then I have no business doing the assignment on this topic.
College is the time where we are free to make our own decisions - where we are finally taking responsibility for our actions. I have to learn to defend my arguments with facts. I have to work for what is important to me, not just work on a project for a decent grade. If I have a reason that I am invested in the assignment, then I will most likely be more willing to put more effort into my work.

I am able to see multiple viewpoints emerge. The books which I have used as references each list different reasons as to what causes eating disorders. Some blame it on traumatic experiences, some blame it on the pressure society puts on women. I believe that each plays a large role in acquiring eating disorders - everyone has a different reason for obtaining one.
I've learned that in the past, eating disorders were not viewed as too important. One was only viewed as "ill" if they had shown symptoms to having other diseases, not just vomiting or lack of eating. I've learned that with great research comes great responsibility. Or that there's a lot of information out there and you just have to learn to sort out what you truly need from what is completely unnecessary.