EBSCO TSI Practice Essay #2

Passage

Telling the truth can have many outcomes: it can help others, it can solve a problem, or it can hurt someone. Imagine a guidance counselor who tells a student, “You are the third worst student in your class.” Or a theater critic who writes, “The actor lacks charisma, talent, or energy.” “I’m probably doing him a favor,” the critic might argue. “He should find another profession.” In fact, people who offer feedback in this manner are not doing anyone a favor; they are being cruel. Adapted from Bruce Kasanoff, “Honesty Without Compassion Is Cruelty” (forbes.com).

Assignment

When people are in a position to offer their opinion or judgment of others, should they always be honest? After considering the prompt and creating a plan for your essay, write a multi-paragraph essay (300–600 words) that presents your point of view. Support your position with logical reasoning and examples drawn from your reading, education, personal experience, and/or observations.