exemplification essay about friendship

• Essay Samples
• College Essay
• Writing Tools
• Writing guide

↑ Return to College Essay

Essay about life and friendship – Exemplification Essay

Introduction

In my exemplification essay, I intend to show examples of friendship and how they may occur in real-life situations. I shall take examples from the experiences of other students in my college.

Defining friendship as it occurs in real life

A friendship occurs when a bond is made between two people that go beyond being an acquaintance. A friendship that is healthy should contain respect, where both people respect each other in a somewhat equal fashion. The two should also care about the fate of the other, and may also care about the emotional and physical wellbeing of the other. A friendship may also include acts, be they of kindness or in general, that work for the best interest of the other without requiring anything tangible in return.

Example 1 – acts of kindness without requiring anything in return

An example of this includes when a young man was dumped by the girlfriend he was living with. The relationship had gone on since school up into college whereupon the two had moved in together. The man’s friend, upon discovering that his friend was moving out of the house he and his girlfriend shared, went over the help him move out of his house into a family member’s house.

Example 2 – acting in the best interest of the other person

A young woman repeatedly saw the partner of her friend flirt with other women and he appeared on many occasions to be taking it a little too far. The woman did not want to tell her friend just in case she was overreacting, plus it may have damaged their relationship. Instead, she spoke to one of the women that the man was flirting with and convinced her to show her girlfriend the text messages that the man had been sending her. That way her friend was able to see what her boyfriend was up to without it damaging the friendship between the two women.

Example 3 – providing support for the other person without any tangible reward

There are numerous occasions in college when students have gone out of their way to be there for their friends during times of illness and grief without ever receiving anything in return. One may assume that if material rewards were not received that maybe they hoped the other would provide the same type of support when they were ill or upset, and yet there are many times when the person giving never receives it back (possibly because it was not needed) and yet the friendship remained strong.

Conclusion There are plenty of examples of friendship in a real-life situation where people do things for other people without any sort of tangible reward. There are occasions when a friend looks out for another person’s interests, and times when acts of kindness are given because of friendship alone. There is an argument to be had around if the actual friendship is reward in itself, which would then mean that acts of kindness and caring are still motivated by self-interest.

Follow Us on Social Media

Get more free essays

Send via email

Most useful resources for students:.

• Free Essays Download
• Writing Tools List
• Proofreading Services
• Universities Rating

Contributors Bio

Find more useful services for students

Free plagiarism check, professional editing, online tutoring, free grammar check.

• About Project
• Testimonials

Business Management Ideas

Essay on Friendship

List of essays on friendship, essay on friendship – short essay for kids (essay 1 – 150 words), essay on friendship – 10 lines on friendship written in english (essay 2 – 250 words), essay on friendship – for school students (class 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7) (essay 3 – 300 words), essay on friendship – for students (essay 4 – 400 words), essay on friendship (essay 5 – 500 words), essay on friendship – introduction, benefits and qualities (essay 6 – 600 words), essay on friendship – essay on true friendship (essay 7 – 750 words), essay on friendship – importance, types, examples and conclusion (essay 8 – 1000 words).

Friendship is a divine relationship, which is defined by neither blood nor any other similarity. Who is in this world does not have a friend?

A friend, with whom you just love to spend your time, can share your joys and sorrows. Most importantly you need not fake yourself and just be what you are. That is what friendship is all about. It is one of the most beautiful of the relations in the world. Students of today need to understand the values of friendship and therefore we have composed different long essays for students as well as short essays.

Audience: The below given essays are exclusively written for school students (Class 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 Standard).

Introduction:

Friendship is considered as one of the treasures that anyone can possess. God has given us the liberty to choose friends because they are for our lifetime. It is quite normal for our parents and siblings to love us because they are our own blood but a friend is someone who is initially a stranger and then takes his/her place above all the other relations. Friendship is nothing but pure love without any expectations.

Role of a Friend:

True friends share and support each other even during the toughest of times. A true friend is one who feels happy for our success, who feel sad for our failures, fight with us for silly things and hugs us the next second, gets angry on us when we do any mistakes. Friendship is all about having true friends who can understand us without the need for us to speak.

Conclusion:

Friendship is very essential for a happy life. Even a two-minute chat with a friend will make us forget our worries. That is the strength of friendship.

Friendship is a divine relationship, which is defined by neither blood nor any other similarity. Friends are those you can choose for yourself in spite of the difference you both have from each other. A good friend in need will do wonders in your life, whenever you are in need of self-realization, upbringing your confidence and more.

Friendship serves you best not only in your happiest moments but also when you feel low in emotions. A life without a good friend is not at all complete and an emptiness will be felt all the time you think of sharing your emotion that can’t be told to anyone else.

Honesty and Patience in Friendship:

To maintain and keep going with a good deep friendship, honesty is the most important factor. You should choose a person who can be cent percent honest with you in all perspective like emotions, decision making, etc. Trustworthy friendship will help you to take better decisions and choose a better path for your future well-being.

Tolerance and patience with each other are another important characteristics of long-lasting friendship. Accepting the differences, friends should be able to be with each other in all situations. As a friend, the person should lead the other to success by being a motivation and criticize the person if they choose the wrong path.

Friendship will give you sweet and happy memories that can be cherished for a lifetime and if you succeed in maintaining that precious relation, then you are the luckiest person in this world. Love and care for each other will cherish the relationship and helps the person to appreciate each thing done without any fail.

Of all the different relations which we indulge in, friendship is considered to be the purest of them all. Friendship is the true confluence of souls with like minded attitude that aids in seamless conversation and the best of times. It is believed that a person who doesn’t have any friend lives one of the toughest lives.

The Desire to Belong:

Each one of us have been so programmed that we need a companion even if it’s not romantic, someone just to tag along. There are several definitions of friendship and it is upon you as to how you believe your relation to be. Friendship can happen when you are simply sharing a bowl of food with a person day after day. It can be expressed in the way you silently care for someone even when they may not be aware of your existence.

The Little Moments that Matter:

It is giving up the little things you love dearly for the sake of someone you cherish a great deal. Friendship often refers to the little moments of senseless laugh you two share when the rest of the world starts to look bleak. It is to know what your friend needs and being there for them even when the rest of the world has turned their back towards them.

Friendship is the kind of relation which sometimes even exceeds the realms of love because it is all about giving without even once bothering to sense what you shall get back. Every time spent is special because when you are with friends, you don’t feel the blues!

The Bottom-Line:

Of course the definition of friendship is going to vary a great deal from one person to another. But, remember one thing, when you are friends with someone, be prepared to put your heart on the line for their happiness because friendship often manifests into love, even if it is not romantic, it always is true!

Friendship is the most valuable as well as precious gifts of life. Friendship is one of the most valued relationship. People who have good friends enjoy the most in their live. True friendship is based on loyalty & support. A good friend is a person who will stand with you when times are tough. A friend is someone special on whom you can rely on to celebrate a special moment. Friendship is like a life asset and it can lead us to success. It all depends on our choice how we choose our friends.

The quality of friendship is essential for happiness. The benefits of healthy friendship remains long-life. In addition, having a strong friend circle also improves our self-confidence. Due to the strong relationship, we get much emotional support during our bad times. True friendship is a feeling of love & care.

Real friendship cannot be built within limited boundaries like caste or creed. It gives us a feeling that someone really needs us & we are not alone. This is true that man cannot live alone. True friends are needed in every stage of life to survive. A true friend can be an old person or a child. But it is generally believed that we make friend with people who are of the same age as ours. Same age group can give you the freedom to share anything.

The selection of a true friend is also a challenging task. We have to carefully make our friend selection. Friends might come & go. They will make you laugh & cry. Wrong selection can create various problems for you. In the modern world, many youngsters become a social nuisance. The reason behind it is wrong & bad friendships.

But if we successfully choose the right person as a friend then our life becomes easier. It doesn’t matter who you are, what type of clothes you wear. The most important thing is trust because the relation of friendship stands on the pillars of trust.

Friendship is a relation which can make or break us in every stage of life. But in other words, friendship is an asset which is really precious. Obviously, it is also not so easy to maintain friendships. It demands your time as well as efforts. Last but not the least, it is hard to find true friendship but once you succeed in this task you will have a wonderful time. In exchange for that a friend will only need your valuable time and trust.

The idea of friendship is either heartwarming or gives cold feet depending on individuals and the types of friendships. In the current world, friendships have had different definitions based on the morality and civilization of the society. Ideally, friendship is defined as the state of mutual trust between individuals or parties. Trust is an important component of friendship because it determines the reliability and longevity of the friendship. Trust is built through honest communications between the individuals and interested parties.

Once trust has been established, mutual understanding and support being to form the resulting in a friendship. This friendship can be broken through lack of trust. Trust can be breached through deceit and/ or some people, it differs with the frequencies. There are people who will break friendships after only one episode of dishonesty whereas some people give second chances and even more chances. Friendship types determine the longevity and the causes of breakups. The importance of friendship in the lives of individuals is the reason why friendships are formed in the first place.

Types of Friendships:

According to Aristotle’s Nichomachean ethics, there are three types of friendships. The friendships are based on three factors i.e. utility, pleasure and goodness. The first type of friendship is based on utility and has been described as a friendship whereby both parties gain from each other.

This type of friendship is dependent on the benefits and that is what keeps the friendship going. This type of friendships do not last long because it dissolves as soon as the benefits are outsourced or when other sources are found outside the friendship. The friendship was invented for trade purposes because when two people with opposite things that depend on each other re put together, trade is maximized.

The second type of friendship is based on pleasure. This is described as friendship in which two individuals are drawn to each other based on desires of pleasure and is characterized by passionate feelings and feelings of belonging. This type of friendship can ether last long or is short-lived depending on the presence of the attraction between the two parties.

The third type of friendship is based on goodness. In this friendship, the goodness of people draw them to each other and they usually have the same virtues. The friendship involves loving each other and expecting goodness. It takes long to develop this kind of friendship but it usually lasts longest and is actually the best kind of friendship to be in. the importance of such a friendship is the social support and love.

In conclusion, friendships are important in the lives of individuals. Trust builds and sustains friendships. The different types of friendships are important because they provide benefits and social support. Friendships provide a feeling of belonging and dependence. The durability of friendships is dependent on the basis of its formation and the intention during the formation. Friendships that last long are not based on materialistic gain, instead, they are based on pure emotion.

Friendship is an emotion of care, mutual trust, and fondness among two persons. A friend might be a work-mate, buddy, fellow student or any individual with whom we feel an attachment.

In friendship, people have a mutual exchange of sentiments and faith too. Usually, the friendship nurtures more amongst those people who belong to a similar age as they possess the same passions, interests, sentiments, and opinions. During the school days, kids who belong to the similar age group have a common dream about their future and this makes them all of them get closer in friendship.

In the same way, employees working in business organizations also make friends as they are working together for attaining the organizational objectives. It does not matter that to which age group you belong, friendship can happen at any time of your life.

Benefits of Friendship:

Sometimes friendship is essential in our life. Below are a few benefits of friendship.

1. It’s impossible to live your life alone always but friendship fills that gap quickly with the friend’s company.

2. You can easily pass the rigidities of life with the friendship as in your distress period your friends are always there to help you.

3. Friendship teaches you how to remain happy in life.

4. In case of any confusion or problem, your friendship will always benefit you with good opinions.

True and Dishonest Friendship:

True friendship is very rare in today’s times. There are so many persons who support only those people who are in power so that they can fulfil their selfish motives below the name of friendship. They stay with friends till the time their selfish requirements are achieved. Dishonest friends leave people as soon as their power gets vanished. You can find these types of self-seeking friends all around the world who are quite hurtful than enemies.

Finding a true friendship is very difficult. A true friend helps the other friend who is in need. It does not matter to him that his friend is right or wrong but he will always support his friend at the time of his difficulty.

Carefulness in the Selection of Friendship:

You must be very careful while choosing friends. You should nurture your friendship with that person who does not leave you in your bad times easily. Once you get emotionally attached to the wrong person you cannot finish your friendship so soon. True friendship continues till the time of your last breaths and does not change with the passing time.

Friendship with a bad person also affects your own thoughts and habits. Therefore, a bad person should not be chosen in any type of circumstances. We must do friendship with full attention and carefulness.

Best Qualities of Good Friendship:

Good friendship provides people an enormous love to each other.

The below are the important qualities of good friendship:

1. Good friendship is always faithful, honest, and truthful.

2. People pay attention and take note of others thoughts in good friendship.

3. Persons quickly forget and let off the mistakes of the other friend. In fact, they accept their friend in the way they are actually.

4. You are not judged on the basis of your success, money or power in it.

5. Friends do not feel shy to provide us with valuable opinions for our welfare.

6. People always share their joyful times with their good friends and also stay ready to help their friends in the time of need.

7. True friends also support others in their professional as well as personal life. They encourage their friends in the area of their interest.

Friendship is established over the sacrifice, love, faith, and concern of mutual benefit. True Friendship is a support and a blessing for everybody. All those males and females who have true and genuine friends are very lucky really.

Friendship can simply be defined as a form of mutual relationship or understanding between two people or more who interact and are attached to one another in a manner that is friendly. A friendship is a serious relationship of devotion between two or more people where people involved have a true and sincere feeling of affection, care and love towards each other devoid of any misunderstanding and without demands.

Primarily friendship happens between people that have the same sentiments, feelings and tastes. It is believed that there is no limit or criteria for friendship. All of the different creed, religion, caste, position, sex and age do not matter when it comes to friendship even though friendships can sometimes be damaged by economic disparity and other forms of differentiation. From all of these, it can be concluded that real and true friendship is very possible between people that have a uniform status and are like-minded.

A lot of friends we have in the world today only remain together in times of prosperity and absence of problems but only the faithful, sincere and true friends remain all through the troubles, times of hardships and our bad times. We only discover who our bad and good friends are in the times where we don’t have things going our way.

Most people want to be friends with people with money and we can’t really know if our friends are true when we have money and do not need their help, we only discover our true friends when we need their help in terms of money or any other form of support. A lot of friendships have been jeopardised because of money and the absence or presence of it.

Sometimes, we might face difficulty or crises in our friendships because of self-respect and ego. Friendships can be affected by us or others and we need to try to strike a balance in our friendships. For our friendship to prosper and be true, we need satisfaction, proper understanding and a trustworthy nature. As true friends, we should never exploit our friends but instead do our utmost best to motivate and support them in doing and attaining the very best things in life.

The true meaning of friendship is sometimes lost because of encounters with fake friends who have used and exploited us for their own personal benefits. People like this tend to end the friendship once they get what they want or stab their supposed friends in the back just to get what they think is best for them. Friendship is a very good thing that can help meet our need for companionship and other emotional needs.

In the world we live in today, it is extremely difficult to come across good and loyal friends and this daunting task isn’t made any easier by the lie and deceit of a lot of people in this generation. So, when one finds a very good and loyal important, it is like finding gold and one should do everything to keep friends like that.

The pursuit of true friendship Is not limited to humans, we can as well find good friends in animals; for example, it is a popular belief that dogs make the best friends. It is very important to have good friends as they help us in times and situations where we are down and facing difficulties. Our true friends always do their best to save us when we are in danger and also provide us with timely and good advice. True friends are priceless assets in our lives, they share our pains and sorrow, help provide relief to us in terrible situations and do their best to make us happy.

Friends can both be the good or the bad types. Good friends help push us on the right path in life while on the other hand, bad friends don’t care about us but only care about themselves and can lead us into the wrong path; because of this, we have to be absolutely careful when choosing our friends in this life.

Bad friends can ruin our lives completely so we have to be weary of them and do our best to avoid bag friends totally. We need friends in our life that will be there for us at every point in time and will share all of our feeling with us, both the good and bad. We need friends we can talk to anytime we are feeling lonely, friends that will make us laugh and smile anytime we are feeling sad.

What is friendship? It is the purest form of relationship between two individual with no hidden agenda. As per the dictionary, it is the mutual affection between people. But, is it just a mutual affection? Not always, as in the case of best friends, it is far beyond that. Great friends share each other’s feelings or notions which bring a feeling of prosperity and mental fulfillment.

A friend is a person whom one can know deeply, as and trust for eternity. Rather than having some likeness in the idea of two people associated with the friendship, they have some extraordinary qualities yet they want to be with each other without changing their uniqueness. By and large, friends spur each other without censuring, however at times great friends scrutinize do affect you in a positive manner.

Importance of Friendship:

It is very important to have a friend in life. Each friend is vital and their significance in known to us when certain circumstances emerge which must be supported by our friends. One can never feel lonely in this world on the off chance that he or she is embraced by true friends. Then again, depression wins in the lives of the individuals who don’t have friends regardless of billions of individuals present on the planet. Friends are particularly vital amid times of emergency and hardships. On the off chance that you wind up experiencing a hard time, having a friend to help you through can make the change simpler.

Having friends you can depend on can help your confidence. Then again, an absence of friends can make you feel lonely and without help, which makes you powerless for different issues, for example, sadness and drug abuse. Having no less than one individual you can depend on will formulate your confidence.

Choosing Your Friends Wisely:

Not all friends can instill the positivity in your life. There can be negative effects as well. It is very important to choose your friends with utmost wisdom. Picking the right friend is somewhat troublesome task however it is extremely important. In the event that for instance a couple of our dear friends are engaged with negative behaviour patterns, for example, smoking, drinking and taking drugs, at some point or another we will be attracted to their bad habits as well. This is the reason behind why it is appropriate to settle on an appropriate decision with regards to making friends.

Genuine friendship is truly a gift delighted in by a couple. The individuals who have it ought to express gratitude toward God for having genuine pearls in their lives and the individuals who don’t have a couple of good friends ought to always take a stab at better approaches to anchor great friends. No organization is superior to having a friend close by in the midst of need. You will stay cheerful in your one-room flat on the off chance that you are surrounded by your friends; then again, you can’t discover satisfaction even in your estate in the event that you are far away from others.

Types of Friends:

There is variety everywhere, so why not in friends. We can see different types of friends during our journey of life. For instance, your best friend at school is someone with whom you just get along the most. That friend, especially in the case of girls, may just get annoyed even if you talk to another of your friend more than her. Such is the childish nature of such friendships that at times it is difficult for others to identify whether you are best friends or competitors.

Then there is another category of your siblings. No matter how much you deny, but your siblings or your elder brother and sisters are those friends of yours who stay on with you for your entire life. You have a different set of friendship with them as you find yourself fighting with them most of the times. However, in times of need, you shall see that they are first ones standing behind you, supporting you.

There is another category of friends called professional friends. You come across such friends only when you grow up and choose a profession for yourself. These friends are usually from the same organisation and prove to be helpful during your settling years. Some of them tend to stay on with you even when you change companies.

Friendship Examples from History:

History has always taught us a lot. Examples of true friendship are not far behind. We have some famous example from history which makes us realise the true value of friendship. The topmost of them are the Krishna and Sudama friendship. We all must have read or heard as to how after becoming a king when Krishna met Sudama, his childhood friend, he treated him with honour even though Sudama was a poor person. It teaches us the friendship need not be between equals. It has to be between likeminded people. Next example is of Karna and Duryodhana, again from the Mahabharat era.

Despite knowing the fact that the Pandavas were his brothers, Karna went on to fight alongside Duryodhan as he is his best friend and even laid down his life for him. What more example of true friendship can one find? Again from the same era, Krishna and Arjun are also referred to as the best of the friends. Bhagavad Gita is an example of how a true friend can guide you towards positivity in life and make you follow the path of Dharma. Similarly, there are numerous examples from history which teach us the values of true friendship and the need to nourish such for own good.

Whether you accept or deny it, a friend plays an important role in your life. In fact, it is very important to have a friend. However, at the same time, it is extremely important to choose the friends wisely as they are the ones who can build you or destroy you. Nonetheless, a friend’s company is something which one enjoys all through life and friends should be treated as the best treasure a man can have.

Friendship , Relationship

Get FREE Work-at-Home Job Leads Delivered Weekly!

Join more than 50,000 subscribers receiving regular updates! Plus, get a FREE copy of How to Make Money Blogging!

Message from Sophia!

Like this post? Don’t forget to share it!

Here are a few recommended articles for you to read next:

• Essay on My Best Friend
• Essay on My Father
• Which is More Important in Life: Love or Money | Essay
• How to Get Your Ex-Girlfriend or Ex-Boyfriend Back: The Most Exclusive Guide

No comments yet.

Leave a reply click here to cancel reply..

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Billionaires

• Donald Trump
• Warren Buffett
• Email Address
• Free Stock Photos
• Keyword Research Tools
• URL Shortener Tools
• WordPress Theme

Book Summaries

• How To Win Friends
• Rich Dad Poor Dad
• The Code of the Extraordinary Mind
• The Luck Factor
• The Millionaire Fastlane
• The ONE Thing
• Think and Grow Rich
• 100 Million Dollar Business
• Business Ideas

Digital Marketing

• Mobile Addiction
• Social Media Addiction
• Computer Addiction
• Drug Addiction
• Internet Addiction
• TV Addiction
• Healthy Habits
• Morning Rituals
• Wake up Early
• Cholesterol
• Reducing Cholesterol
• Fat Loss Diet Plan
• Reducing Hair Fall
• Sleep Apnea
• Weight Loss

Internet Marketing

• Email Marketing

Law of Attraction

• Subconscious Mind
• Vision Board
• Visualization

Law of Vibration

• Professional Life

Motivational Speakers

• Bob Proctor
• Robert Kiyosaki
• Vivek Bindra
• Inner Peace

Productivity

• Not To-do List
• Project Management Software
• Negative Energies

Relationship

• Getting Back Your Ex

Self-help 21 and 14 Days Course

Self-improvement.

• Body Language
• Complainers
• Emotional Intelligence
• Personality

Social Media

• Project Management
• Anik Singal
• Baba Ramdev
• Dwayne Johnson
• Jackie Chan
• Leonardo DiCaprio
• Narendra Modi
• Nikola Tesla
• Sachin Tendulkar
• Sandeep Maheshwari
• Shaqir Hussyin

Website Development

Wisdom post, worlds most.

• Expensive Cars

Our Portals: Gulf Canada USA Italy Gulf UK

Privacy Overview

Essays About Friendships: Top 6 Examples and 8 Prompts

Friendships are one of life’s greatest gifts. To write a friendship essay, make this guide your best friend with its essays about friendships plus prompts.

Every lasting relationship starts with a profound friendship. The foundations that keep meaningful friendships intact are mutual respect, love, laughter, and great conversations. Our most important friendships can support us in our most trying times. They can also influence our life for the better or, the worse, depending on the kind of friends we choose to keep. 

As such, at an early age, we are encouraged to choose friends who can promote a healthy, happy and productive life. However, preserving our treasured friendships is a lifelong process that requires investments in time and effort.

6 Informative Essay Examples

1. the limits of friendships by maria konnikova, 2. friendship by ralph waldo emerson, 3. don’t confuse friendships and business relationships by jerry acuff, 4. a 40-year friendship forged by the challenges of busing by thomas maffai, 5. how people with autism forge friendships by lydia denworth, 6.  friendships are facing new challenges thanks to the crazy cost of living by habiba katsha , 1. the importance of friendship in early childhood development, 2. what makes a healthy friendship, 3. friendships that turn into romance, 4. long-distance friendship with social media, 5. dealing with a toxic friendship, 6. friendship in the workplace, 7. greatest friendships in literature, 8. friendships according to aristotle .

…”[W]ithout investing the face-to-face time, we lack deeper connections to them, and the time we invest in superficial relationships comes at the expense of more profound ones.”

Social media is challenging the Dunbar number, proving that our number of casual friends runs to an average of 150. But as we expand our social base through social media, experts raise concerns about its effect on our social skills, which effectively develop through physical interaction.

“Friendship requires that rare mean betwixt likeness and unlikeness, that piques each with the presence of power and of consent in the other party.”

The influential American essayist Emerson unravels the mysteries behind the divine affinity that binds a friendship while laying down the rules and requirements needed to preserve the fellowship. To Emerson, friendship should allow a certain balance between agreement and disagreement. You might also be interested in these articles about best friends .

“Being friendly in business is necessary but friendships in business aren’t. That’s an important concept. We can have a valuable business relationship without friendship. Unfortunately, many mistakenly believe that the first step to building a business relationship is to develop a friendship.”

This essay differentiates friends from business partners. Using an anecdote, the essay warns against investing too much emotion and time in building friendships with business partners or customers, as such an approach may be futile in increasing sales.

“As racial tensions mounted around them, Drummer and Linehan developed a close connection—one that bridged their own racial differences and has endured more than four decades of evolving racial dynamics within Boston’s schools. Their friendship als­o served as a public symbol of racial solidarity at a time when their students desperately needed one.”

At a time when racial discrimination is at its highest, the author highlights a friendship they built and strengthened at the height of tensions during racial desegregation. This friendship proves that powerful interracial friendships can still be forged and separate from the politics of race.

“…15-year-old Massina Commesso worries a lot about friendship and feeling included. For much of her childhood, Massina had a neurotypical best friend… But as they entered high school, the other friend pulled away, apparently out of embarrassment over some of Massina’s behavior.”

Research debunks the myth that people with autism naturally detest interaction — evidence suggests the opposite. Now, research is shedding more light on the unique social skills of people with autism, enabling society to find ways to help them find true friendships. 

“The cost of living crisis is affecting nearly everyone, with petrol, food and electricity prices all rising. So understandably, it’s having an impact on our friendships too.”

People are now more reluctant to dine out with friends due to the rapidly rising living costs. Friendships are being tested as friends need to adjust to these new financial realities and be more creative in cultivating friendships through lower-cost get-togethers.

8 Topic Prompts on Essays About Friendships

More than giving a sense of belonging, friendships help children learn to share and resolve conflicts. First, find existing research linking the capability to make and keep friends to one’s social, intellectual, and emotional development. 

Then, write down what schools and households can do to reinforce children’s people skills. Here, you can also tackle how they can help children with learning, communication, or behavioral difficulties build friendships, given how their conditions interfere with their capabilities and interactions. 

As with plants, healthy friendships thrive on fertile soil. In this essay, list the qualities that make “fertile soil” and explain how these can grow the seeds of healthy friendships. Some examples include mutual respect and the setting of boundaries. 

Then, write down how you should water and tend to your dearest friendships to ensure that it thrives in your garden of life. You can also discuss your healthy friendships and detail how these have unlocked the best version of yourself. 

Marrying your best friend is a romance story that makes everyone fall in love. However, opening up about your feelings for your best friend is risky. For this prompt, collate stories of people who boldly made the first step in taking their friendship to a new level.

Hold interviews to gather data and ask them the biggest lesson they learned and what they can share to help others struggling with their emotions for their best friend. Also, don’t forget to cite relevant data, such as this study that shows several romantic relationships started as friendships. 

It’s challenging to sustain a long-distance friendship. But many believe that social media has narrowed that distance through an online connection. In your essay, explain the benefits social media has offered in reinforcing long-distance friendships. 

Determine if these virtual connections suffice to keep the depth of friendships. Make sure to use studies to support your argument. You can also cite studies with contrasting findings to give readers a holistic view of the situation.

It could be heartbreaking to feel that your friend is gradually becoming a foe. In this essay, help your readers through this complicated situation with their frenemies by pointing out red flags that signal the need to sever ties with a friend. Help them assess when they should try saving the friendship and when they should walk away. Add a trivial touch to your essay by briefly explaining the origins of the term “frenemies” and what events reinforced its use. 

We all know that there is inevitable competition in the workplace. Added to this are the tensions between managers and employees. So can genuine friendships thrive in a workplace? To answer this, turn to the wealth of experience and insights of long-time managers and human resource experts. 

First, describe the benefits of fostering friendships in the workplace, such as a deeper connection in working toward shared goals, as well as the impediments, such as inherent competition among colleagues. Then, dig for case studies that prove or disprove the relevance and possibility of having real friends at work.

Whether it be the destructive duo like Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, or the hardworking pair of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson, focus on a literary friendship that you believe is the ultimate model of friendship goals. 

Narrate how the characters met and the progression of their interactions toward becoming a friendship. Then, describe the nature of the friendship and what factors keep it together. 

In Book VIII of his Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle writes about three kinds of friendships: pleasure, utility, and virtue. Dive deeper into the Greek philosopher’s mind and attempt to differentiate his three types of friendships. 

Point out ideas he articulated most accurately about friendship and parts you disagree with. For one, Aristotle refutes the concept that friendships are necessarily built on likeness alone, hence his classification of friendships. Do you share his sentiments? 

Read our Grammarly review before you submit your essay to make sure it is error-free! Tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

• Free Case Studies
• Business Essays

Write My Case Study

Buy Case Study

Case Study Help

• Case Study For Sale
• Case Study Services
• Hire Writer

Essay about life and friendship – Exemplification Essay

Introduction In my exemplification essay, I intend to show examples of friendship and how they may occur in real-life situations. I shall take examples from the experiences of other students in my college. Defining friendship as it occurs in real life A friendship occurs when a bond is made between two people that go beyond being an acquaintance. A friendship that is healthy should contain respect, where both people respect each other in a somewhat equal fashion. The two should also care about the fate of the other, and may also care about the emotional and physical wellbeing of the other.

A friendship may also include acts, be they of kindness or in general, that work for the best interest of the other without requiring anything tangible in return. Example 1 – acts of kindness without requiring anything in return An example of this includes when a young man was dumped by the girlfriend he was living with. The relationship had gone on since school up into college whereupon the two had moved in together. The man’s friend, upon discovering that his friend was moving out of the house he and his girlfriend shared, went over the help him move out of his house into a family member’s house. Example 2 – acting in the best interest of the other person A young woman repeatedly saw the partner of her friend flirt with other women and he appeared on many occasions to be taking it a little too far. The woman did not want to tell her friend just in case she was overreacting, plus it may have damaged their relationship.

We Will Write a Custom Case Study Specifically For You For Only $13.90/page!

Instead, she spoke to one of the women that the man was flirting with and convinced her to show her girlfriend the text messages that the man had been sending her. That way her friend was able to see what her boyfriend was up to without it damaging the friendship between the two women. Example 3 – providing support for the other person without any tangible reward There are numerous occasions in college when students have gone out of their way to be there for their friends during times of illness and grief without ever receiving anything in return. One may assume that if material rewards were not received that maybe they hoped the other would provide the same type of support when they were ill or upset, and yet there are many times when the person giving never receives it back (possibly because it was not needed) and yet the friendship remained strong. Conclusion There are plenty of examples of friendship in a real-life situation where people do things for other people without any sort of tangible reward. There are occasions when a friend looks out for another person’s interests, and times when acts of kindness are given because of friendship alone.

There is an argument to be had around if the actual friendship is reward in itself, which would then mean that acts of kindness and caring are still motivated by self-interest.

Related posts:

• Music in my life – Exemplification Essay
• Persuasive Exemplification Essay – Legalizing marijuana
• Friendship is Lonely: The Novel Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
• Case Study on Friendship
• Friendship. Sociology
• Life after college – Definition essay
• Narrative Essay – Life Lesson

Quick Links

Privacy Policy

Terms and Conditions

Testimonials

Our Services

Case Study Writing Services

Case Studies For Sale

Our Company

Welcome to the world of case studies that can bring you high grades! Here, at ACaseStudy.com, we deliver professionally written papers, and the best grades for you from your professors are guaranteed!

[email protected] 804-506-0782 350 5th Ave, New York, NY 10118, USA

Acasestudy.com © 2007-2019 All rights reserved.

Hi! I'm Anna

Would you like to get a custom case study? How about receiving a customized one?

Haven't Found The Case Study You Want?

For Only $13.90/page

• Writing Essay on Friendship: 3 Samples to Get Inspired

When in school or college, you won’t escape the task of writing an essay on friendship. It’s a paper revealing the power of having friends and reflecting on the corresponding values.

It seems easy to write. You craft a narrative about your mates, explaining what they mean to you. And yet, it’s an academic paper. So, some rules are still here on how to structure and format it.

In this article, you’ll find three samples of different essays on friendship. Feel free to use them to get inspired and better understand this paper’s nature and purpose.

Let’s answer all the questions related to friendship essays together!

What Is an Essay on Friendship?

First, the definition:

An essay on friendship is a short academic paper students write to express their thoughts and reflections on the topic.

The purpose is to:

• explore the phenomenon;
• understand what it means to you;
• realize the significance of having close people nearby;
• reveal the pros and cons of committing to a friendship;
• reflect on how friendship can help our wellness.

Friendship essays aren’t about “my friends and I” topics only. You can write about the role of friendship for mental health, craft an expository essay explaining the topic, or build a reflective essay on what friendship means to you.

Friendship Essay Structure

Friendship essays have a standard structure of academic papers. They are short and consist of three parts:

• Introduction about friendship
• Paragraph about friendship
• Friendship essay conclusion

In the intro, you start with an attention grabber. Feel free to use a quote, a surprising fact, or an anecdote. Introduce the topic and finish with thesis statements about friendship.

In a friendship paragraph, you support a thesis with facts, evidence, personal stories, etc. As a rule, essay bodies have three paragraphs minimum. So you can devote each paragraph to one aspect :

• Definition of this concept 
• Why having friends is essential
• What a friend can give you
• Types of friendship  
• Challenges mates meet on their way  
• Characteristics of a good friend  
• How to strengthen a friendship, etc. 

In the essay body, you can use stories and examples from your life to illustrate points. Tell about your friends and share personal thoughts — it will make your paper more compelling to read.

In the concluding paragraph, sum up the points and restate your thesis. Finish on a positive note, leaving readers with the food for thought.

Easier said than done, huh?

Below are three samples of friendship essays for you to see what they look like and how they sound.

3 Samples to Help You Write an Essay About Friendship

While Ralph Waldo Emerson friendship essay (1) is the top example of the paper on this topic, we’ll go further and provide several NEW samples.

Please check:

Short Essay on Friendship

This sample is perfect for high school students. As a rule, teachers ask them to write 150-200-word essays. The task is to describe concepts or things the way they understand them.

Narrative Essay on Friendship

Narrative essays are more about personal stories. Here, you can tell about your friends, include dialogues , and sound less academic.

500 Words Essay Sample on Importance of Friendship

Over to You

Now, you have three samples and know how to structure this paper. Ready to write yours?

Let’s begin with the “Why is friendship important?” essay — and you’ll see that it’s not super challenging to craft. Be honest, share your thoughts, and don’t hesitate to write personal reflections on the topic.

Still don’t know how to start your essay on friendship? Our writers are here to help. 

References:

• https://archive.vcu.edu/english/engweb/transcendentalism/authors/emerson/essays/friendship.html
• Essay samples
• Essay writing
• Writing tips

Recent Posts

• Writing the “Why Should Abortion Be Made Legal” Essay: Sample and Tips
• 3 Examples of Enduring Issue Essays to Write Yours Like a Pro
• How to Structure a Leadership Essay (Samples to Consider)
• What Is Nursing Essay, and How to Write It Like a Pro

Essay on Friendship

Essay generator.

Friendship is a timeless and cherished bond that transcends age, culture, and circumstance. It is a connection that enriches our lives, provides support in times of need, and offers a profound sense of belonging. In this essay, we will delve into the meaning of friendship, its qualities, the significance it holds in our lives, and the art of nurturing and maintaining these invaluable relationships. Understanding friendship is essential for students aiming to participate in essay writing competitions, as it touches upon the very essence of human connection.

Friendship can be defined as a close and meaningful relationship between two or more individuals characterized by mutual affection, trust, understanding, and support. It is a bond formed through shared experiences, interests, and genuine care for each other’s well-being.

Qualities of Friendship

• Trust: Trust is the bedrock of friendship. Friends rely on each other and have confidence in the loyalty and reliability of their companions.
• Mutual Respect: True friends respect each other’s values, boundaries, and differences. They celebrate each other’s individuality.
• Shared Interests: Common interests and hobbies often form the basis of friendships. Shared activities strengthen the bond between friends.
• Empathy: Friends offer a listening ear and understanding shoulder in times of joy and sorrow. Empathy deepens the connection and provides emotional support.
• Loyalty: Friendship thrives on loyalty. Friends stand by each other through thick and thin, offering unwavering support.

Significance of Friendship

• Emotional Support: Friends provide a vital support system during life’s challenges. They offer comfort, encouragement, and a sense of belonging during difficult times.
• Mental Well-being: Strong friendships are linked to improved mental health. They reduce stress, increase happiness, and provide a sense of purpose.
• Personal Growth: Friends challenge and inspire us to become better versions of ourselves. They offer constructive feedback and encourage self-improvement.
• Social Connection: Friendship combats feelings of loneliness and isolation. It enriches our lives with meaningful social interactions.
• Happiness: Genuine friendships contribute to our overall happiness and life satisfaction. They create lasting memories and moments of joy.

5 values of friendship

The values of friendship are essential qualities and principles that contribute to the depth and strength of a genuine and meaningful friendship. Here are five values that underpin the essence of true friendship:

• Trust: Trust is the foundation of any lasting friendship. It involves having confidence in your friend’s reliability, honesty, and loyalty. Friends should be able to confide in each other, knowing that their secrets and vulnerabilities will be respected.
• Respect: Respect in friendship means acknowledging and valuing each other’s individuality, beliefs, boundaries, and differences. Friends treat each other with courtesy and consideration, even when they have contrasting opinions or lifestyles.
• Empathy: Empathy is the ability to understand and share in the feelings and experiences of your friend. It involves being a compassionate listener, offering support during challenging times, and celebrating each other’s joys and successes.
• Loyalty: Loyalty is a core value in friendship. True friends stand by each other through thick and thin, offering unwavering support and loyalty, even when faced with difficulties or disagreements.
• Communication: Open and honest communication is key to a healthy friendship. Friends should be able to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without fear of judgment. Effective communication helps in resolving conflicts and strengthening the bond between friends.

These values are the building blocks of strong, enduring friendships that bring joy, support, and fulfillment to the lives of those who cherish them.

Nurturing Friendships

• Communication: Open and honest communication is vital for maintaining friendships. Regularly check in with friends, share thoughts and feelings, and actively listen to their concerns.
• Quality Time: Spend quality time together, whether in person or virtually. Shared experiences strengthen the bond between friends.
• Supportive Acts: Show kindness and support through actions. Be there for your friends when they need you, and offer help willingly.
• Resolve Conflicts: Conflicts are natural in any relationship. Address them promptly and constructively, focusing on finding solutions rather than blame.
• Respect Boundaries: Respect your friends’ personal boundaries and their need for space when necessary.

The Importance of Friendship in Adolescence: 

• 1. Emotional Support and Understanding:
• 2. Identity Formation:
• 3. Social Skills Development:
• 4. Peer Influence:
• 5. Sense of Belonging:
• 6. Coping with Transitions:
• 7. Lifelong Lessons:

Toxic Friendships

Friendships are typically associated with positivity, trust, and support. However, not all friendships are healthy or beneficial. Toxic friendships are those that have a detrimental impact on your well-being, emotional health, and overall life satisfaction. It’s crucial to recognize the signs of a toxic friendship, understand its consequences, and take steps to address or end it.

Signs of a Toxic Friendship:

• Constant Negativity: A toxic friend tends to be consistently negative, complaining, criticizing, and bringing down your mood.
• Self-Centeredness: They are primarily focused on their needs, problems, and interests, rarely showing genuine interest in your life.
• Manipulation: Toxic friends may use manipulation tactics to control or exploit you, often making you feel guilty or obligated.
• Lack of Support: They are not there for you during challenging times, and they may even undermine your goals and aspirations.
• Jealousy and Competition: Toxic friends may become envious of your successes and engage in unhealthy competition or passive-aggressive behaviors.
• Betrayal of Trust: They may breach your trust by sharing personal information or spreading rumors about you.

In conclusion, friendship is a priceless gem that adds depth and meaning to our lives. It thrives on trust, mutual respect, and support, offering solace in times of need and joy in moments of celebration. As budding writers, we must recognize the profound significance of these bonds, striving to cultivate and cherish them as we navigate life’s journey. Friendship is, indeed, a treasure worth preserving.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Generate an essay on the importance of extracurricular activities for student development

Write an essay discussing the role of technology in modern education.

• How to Order

Expository Essay

Expository Essay About Friendship

Expository Essay About Friendship: A Writing Guide

People also read

Complete Guide to Expository Essays: Writing Help and Topics

Interesting Expository Essay Topics For Your Next Paper

How to Write an Expository Essay Outline Like a Pro

Types of Expository Writing - Definition and Examples

Free Expository Essay Examples For Students

Ultimate Guide to Writing an Expository Essay About a Person

Learn to Write an Expository Essay About Yourself

Learn the Basics of Crafting an Expository Essay about a Book

Learn to Write Expository Essay About Mental Health - Examples & Tips

How to Write an Expository Essay about Bullying: A Guide

Expository Essay About Dogs: Steps, Examples & Topics

A Guide to Writing an Expository Essay about Education

Discover How to Write Expository Essays About Music – A Step-by-Step Guide

Going to write an expository essay about friendship?

Expository writing about friendship can be a complex and interesting task. It requires research and analysis to come up with the right content for your essay.

Expository essays allow us to look at topics from new perspectives. That is also why they are not easy to write.

To help you out, we’ve prepared this guide on how to write an expository essay about friendship. You'll also get example essays to read and take inspiration from.

So let's get into it!

• 1. Expository Essay Definition
• 2. How To Write Expository Essay About Friendship Step-by-Step
• 3. Expository Essay Examples on Friendship
• 4. Expository Essay Topics About Friendship

Expository Essay Definition

An expository essay  is a type of academic writing that seeks to explain or inform the reader about a particular topic. Expository essays typically provide readers with evidence, facts, and arguments related to the subject in question.

They are written using an objective tone, meaning they do not take sides or attempt to persuade the reader. Instead, they are simply providing information and allowing the reader to make their own conclusions.

An expository essay about friendship would attempt to discuss friendship from any perspective. It could discuss the different types of friendship or the different components that make up a strong bond.

Now, let’s move on to the first step – writing the essay!

How To Write Expository Essay About Friendship Step-by-Step

Having read the above examples and topic ideas, you now have a good idea of what a friendship essay is. But how do you write one yourself?

Follow these steps to write an excellent essay about friendship:

• Choose a topic

Start by deciding what type of essay you want to write, and choose a topic related to friendship that interests you. For example, you could write about the different types of friendships or how people become friends.

• Do research

Research is a crucial part of writing an expository essay. Look for reliable sources such as scholarly books, peer-reviewed journals, etc, that provide factual information about the topic. Make sure to keep track of which sources you used and take detailed notes on important points.

• Make an Outline

After researching, create an outline for expository essay  that will serve as a roadmap for your essay. Decide how you want to format the essay and which points you’ll be discussing. This is also the time to decide on a thesis statement and any subtopics you want to cover in your essay.

• Write Your First Draft

Now it’s time to start writing! Focus on each point in your outline and provide evidence, facts, and/or examples to back up your claims. Try to use a variety of sentence structures and don’t forget to proofread once you’re done.

• Revise Your Essay

Once you have completed the first draft of your essay, look for areas that can be improved and revise accordingly. While making revisions , make sure that your essay is well-structured, logically organized, and coherent from start to finish.

Let's check out some essay samples to gain a deeper understanding.

Expository Essay Examples on Friendship

Here are some essay examples about the topic of friendship. You can use these for inspiration when writing your own expository essay about friendship. 

Example of Short Essay About Friendship

Expository Essay About True Friendship

What is Friendship Essay 300 Words

Expository Essay About Friendship 1000 Words

Expository Essay About Friendship 500 Words

Want more examples? Have a look at these unique expository essay examples to get inspired!

Expository Essay Topics About Friendship

When it comes to writing an expository essay about friendship, you have plenty of options. 

Here are some topics that you can consider:

• How does a true friend help us cope with bad times?
• How has technology changed the way we form friendships?
• What roles do trust and communication play in a strong friendship?
• What is the role of dogs in fostering friendship
• Explore the friendship dynamics in relation to unique individuals
• Addressing bullying and its impact on friendship circles
• What is the importance of friendship?
• How do different cultural backgrounds affect the way we form and think about friendships?
• How can we define a good friend?

Remember to choose a topic that you are interested in exploring and one that resonates with your audience. This will help make your essay more engaging and interesting.

Need more topics to get started? Check out these creative expository essay topics on different themes!

To end the discussion,

Following these steps will make it easier to write an expository essay about friendship. Just remember to research as much as you can, stay organized, and don’t forget to proofread.

Do you still need more help in writing your essay? No need to worry, we're here to help you till the end.

At MyPerfectWords.com, we provide you with the top expository essay writing service you can find online. 

Our essay writing service promises to provide you with a 100% original essay that is free of plagiarism and mistakes. Whether you need an expository essay about a person , or a book , our writers can tackle any topic.

So if you're looking for help in writing an expository essay about friendship, get our essay writing help online today!

Write Essay Within 60 Seconds!

Caleb S. has been providing writing services for over five years and has a Masters degree from Oxford University. He is an expert in his craft and takes great pride in helping students achieve their academic goals. Caleb is a dedicated professional who always puts his clients first.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

Offer of the decade FLAT 20% off + sign up bonus of $20 Order Now

• [email protected]
• +14159918581

Files Missing!

Please upload all relevant files for quick & complete assistance.

Exemplification Essay: Writing Guide

Home / Blog / Exemplification Essay

Introduction

An exemplification essay is a type of essay that uses specific examples to support a generalization or an argument. The examples used in an exemplification essay help to clarify, explain, and prove a point. In this guide, we will discuss the key elements of an exemplification essay and provide examples to help you understand how to write one.

What is an Exemplification Essay?

An exemplification essay is a type of argumentative essay that uses examples to support a thesis statement. The purpose of an exemplification essay is to prove a point through the use of examples. The examples used in an exemplification essay should be relevant, specific, and convincing. An exemplification essay is different from other types of essays because it uses concrete examples to support a point rather than relying on generalizations or opinions.

How to Write an Exemplification Essay?

An exemplification essay follows the same basic structure as other types of essays. The essay should have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion . However, the body of an exemplification essay is where the examples are presented and analyzed in detail.

Choose a Topic

The first step in writing an exemplification essay is to choose a topic. The topic should be something that you are familiar with and have a strong opinion about. You should also choose a topic that is narrow enough to be covered in a single essay. For example, if you want to write about the benefits of exercise, you should focus on a specific aspect of exercise such as weight loss or stress reduction.

Develop a Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is the main point of your essay. It should be a clear and concise statement that summarizes the argument you are making. The thesis statement should also be specific and focused on the topic you have chosen. For example, if you are writing about the benefits of exercise, your thesis statement could be: "Regular exercise can lead to weight loss, improved mental health, and increased energy levels."

Gather Examples

The next step is to gather examples that support your thesis statement. These examples should be specific, relevant, and persuasive. You can use a variety of sources to gather examples, including personal experiences, research studies, and statistics. For example, if you are writing about the benefits of exercise, you could use examples such as personal stories of weight loss success, studies that show the correlation between exercise and improved mental health, and statistics that show the benefits of exercise on energy levels.

Organize your Essay

Once you have gathered your examples, you need to organize your essay. The body of your essay should be divided into paragraphs, with each paragraph focusing on a specific example. Each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that states the main point of the paragraph. You should also use transition words and phrases to link the paragraphs together and create a logical flow.

Write the Introduction

The introduction of your exemplification essay should grab the reader's attention and provide background information about the topic. It should also include your thesis statement, which summarizes the argument you are making. You can use a variety of techniques to grab the reader's attention, such as asking a question, using a quote, or providing a startling statistic.

Write the Body

The body of your essay should present your examples and analyze them in detail. Each paragraph should focus on a specific example and provide evidence to support your argument. You should also use transition words and phrases to link the paragraphs together and create a logical flow. Make sure to use specific examples that are relevant to your thesis statement.

Write the Conclusion

The conclusion of your exemplification essay should summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement. It should also provide a final thought or call to action. You can use a variety of techniques to wrap up your essay, such as providing a summary of your examples, restating your thesis statement in a different way, or making a prediction about the future of the topic you are discussing.

Examples of Exemplification Essays

To better understand how to write an exemplification essay, let's take a look at some examples.

Example 1: The Importance of Time Management

Topic: the importance of time management for students.

Thesis Statement: Effective time management can improve a student's academic performance, reduce stress levels, and increase overall productivity.

Body Paragraphs:

Academic Performance: Students who manage their time effectively are more likely to achieve academic success. For example, students who create study schedules and prioritize their assignments are more likely to complete their work on time and earn better grades.

Stress Reduction: Effective time management can also reduce stress levels. Students who manage their time well are less likely to experience the stress of cramming for exams or missing deadlines. By reducing stress levels, students can focus better on their studies and achieve better results.

Increased Productivity: Good time management habits can also increase productivity. By creating a schedule and sticking to it, students can make the most of their time and get more done in less time.

Conclusion: In conclusion, effective time management is essential for students who want to succeed academically, reduce stress levels, and increase overall productivity. By prioritizing their time and sticking to a schedule, students can achieve better results in all areas of their lives.

Example 2: The Benefits of a Healthy Lifestyle

Topic: the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

Thesis Statement: Living a healthy lifestyle can improve physical health, mental health, and overall well-being.

Physical Health: A healthy lifestyle can lead to improved physical health. For example, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

Mental Health: A healthy lifestyle can also improve mental health. Regular exercise can help reduce stress levels and improve mood, while a balanced diet can provide the nutrients needed for optimal brain function.

Overall Well-being: By prioritizing a healthy lifestyle, individuals can improve their overall well-being. They may feel more energized, have better relationships with others, and experience a greater sense of purpose in their lives.

Conclusion: In conclusion, living a healthy lifestyle can lead to improved physical health, mental health, and overall well-being. By making small changes to their daily habits, individuals can reap the benefits of a healthier lifestyle and live happier, more fulfilling lives.

An exemplification essay is a powerful tool for writers who want to support their arguments with specific examples. By following the steps outlined in this guide , you can write a compelling exemplification essay that persuades your readers and proves your point. Remember to choose a specific topic, develop a clear thesis statement, gather relevant examples, organize your essay, and write a strong introduction and conclusion. With practice and patience, you can become an expert at writing exemplification essays and make a persuasive case for your ideas.

Do you want to share?

You might also like.

Top 100 Persuasive Essay Topics/Ideas for Students

Discursive Essay Topics for Students

How to Write an Essay Introduction?

How to Write a Law Essay: Writing Guide with Examples

How to Choose Ideal Argumentative Essay Topics to Work On

PEEL Paragraph a Guide to Write a Perfect Essay

100 Effective Persuasive Essay Topics

How to Write a Descriptive Essay?- Guide with Examples

Who Am I Essay : How to Write it?

Leave a reply, place order.

Want Impressive Essay Help?

Submit your requirements here

  -->Admin -->  Published On Oct 3, 2023 | Updated on Oct 4, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 30, 2023 | Updated on Sep 30, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 26, 2023 | Updated on Sep 26, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 22, 2023 | Updated on Sep 26, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 5, 2023 | Updated on Sep 11, 2023

Assignment Help

Dissertation

Research Paper

  -->Admin -->  Published On Apr 18, 2019 | Updated on Aug 10, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 22, 2018 | Updated on Sep 12, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Feb 13, 2019 | Updated on Aug 10, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Apr 5, 2023 | Updated on Aug 10, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Jun 22, 2020 | Updated on Aug 10, 2023

Subscribe Newsletter

You can place your order for free now. Simply submit your order and see what our writers can Subscribe to get regular update!

Thank you for commenting.

Thank you for subscribed newsletter.

Thank You For Commenting.

Get acquainted with the top essay helpers in the country and glide smoothly towards your academic goals with the necessary essay writing help online from US’s top professionals.

Want quick $20? Share your details with us.

Thank you for subscribing our newsletter

Have any Query? Contact with us

• Essay Guides
• Main Academic Essays
• How to Write an Exemplification Essay: Definition, Outline & Samples
• Speech Topics
• Basics of Essay Writing
• Essay Topics
• Other Essays
• Research Paper Topics
• Basics of Research Paper Writing
• Miscellaneous
• Chicago/ Turabian
• Data & Statistics
• Methodology
• Admission Writing Tips
• Admission Advice
• Other Guides
• Student Life
• Studying Tips
• Understanding Plagiarism
• Academic Writing Tips
• Basics of Dissertation & Thesis Writing

• Research Paper Guides
• Formatting Guides
• Basics of Research Process
• Admission Guides
• Dissertation & Thesis Guides

How to Write an Exemplification Essay: Definition, Outline & Samples

Table of contents

Use our free Readability checker

An exemplification essay is a type of essay that uses specific examples to support the writer's main ideas. The examples used in an exemplification essay are usually real-life situations or experiences that reinforce a thesis statement.

Exemplification essays can be challenging to write because they require a significant amount of research and critical thinking. You should carefully select relevant anexamples that both support your argument and effectively communicate your message.

Read along and learn how to write an exemplification essay and what examples to use to illustrate your point. We will further provide exemplification essay samples to reinforce your knowledge of this form of writing.

What Is an Exemplification Essay: Definition

An exemplification essay is a mode of analytical or argumentative writing that uses vivid and specific examples as a way of illustrating, defining, persuading, or explaining a topic. Its goal is to show an idea using evidence, as this helps an audience understand the main message or point. Exemplification essays can include diverse examples such as personal anecdotes, current events, historical occurrences, statistics, scientific studies, and analogies. Writing an exemplification essay effectively necessitates being more convincing with the evidence and accompanying details to enhance your credibility. For instance, if your intention is to prove that people must engage in physical exercise to lose weight, stating “ exercising is good for your health ” is not sufficient. Instead, you must elaborate on your statement with facts or clear examples.

Exemplification Examples

The first step towards writing effectively is choosing an idea that will be exemplified. There are many examples of exemplification issues in different subjects that you can select. However, if you still need further clarification regarding potential themes, pick an example of exemplification topic from this list:

• Reasons cars are stolen.
• How missionaries influenced various cultures.
• Why banning cigarettes is right due to the negative effect of tobacco on smokers.
• How extensive conversation, writing, and reading practice help strengthen a grasp of the English language for foreign students.
• Discussing the theme of deceit in a work of literature such as Shakespeare’s plays.
• How to support the mission of an organization financially.

Exemplification Essay Outline

It is essential to compose a rough exemplification essay outline before beginning the writing process. This will not only help a student save time later when writing but also assist in reviewing all examples before using them. You will see which evidence is suitable for your thesis and discard weak evidence. Consider this exemplification essay outline example :

• Topic sentence
• Explanation

Need professional assistance? Connect with our best college essay service and get an essay exceeding your expectations.

Exemplification Essay Introduction

An introduction to an exemplification essay is the first part of your writing task. This section provides readers with a clear view of what you will cover. Begin the introduction by giving a general or broad overview of the topic before narrowing it to a specific focus. The introduction of an exemplification essay does three crucial things:

• Gets the attention of the audience, as this keeps them interested in reading further. You should be engaging and focus on an original and fresh angle. Use stories, statistics, fascinating quotes, etc.
• Provides relevant background on the aim of your essay, as this helps readers see why you picked that topic and simplifies the transition toward your main point.
• Ends with a clear thesis statement.

Exemplification Essay Thesis Statement

The exemplification essay thesis is where you state the topic and aim of your paper in a sentence. A good thesis statement for exemplification essay will show the structure of your work and help readers understand the points to be discussed throughout the body. While your thesis is usually a single sentence, breaking it into two parts might be essential for complex topics. However, declare your thesis by stating your stand, and why you took that position. Ensure that the statement is specific and answers the question of your paper. A good thesis should make a debatable point, which means a point people might argue against and disagree with. Keep in mind that you cannot write an exemplification essay without a thesis, as the rest of your paper will lack clear structure and focus. If you make any changes in your essay during the writing process, make sure that the thesis is revised to reflect exactly what is discussed.

Exemplification Essay Body

The body of an exemplification essay is where you develop the main ideas fully. Each body paragraph must contain one key claim or idea, which you should support with relevant exemplification essay examples. Use specific evidence to clarify meanings without adding other generalizations. Ensure that all the examples are organized to generate maximum outcome. The information in the body forms the basis of your exemplification paper by helping you prove your thesis. A simple thesis statement requires a short body, while complex or long one requires a longer body. Structure each exemplification paragraph in the body of your paper in a way that establishes a vivid relationship between examples and points. Additionally, use appropriate transitional phrases or words such as “ a case in point ”, “ in addition ”, “ for instance ”, or “ specifically ”. Unimaginative transitions like “ this is my first example ” should be avoided.

Examples of Exemplification in Writing

Your writing will be more appealing and interesting if you provide a specific exemplification essay example. You can use different types of exemplification essay examples based on this list:

• Brief examples Include several examples to support the main claim completely. For instance, if a literature assignment requires you to discuss the theme of love in Shakespeare’s work , you will consider several examples from different plays.
• Extended examples Focus on one main example and discuss all the fine details associated with it. For instance, if your thesis is about how diversity should be practiced in an organization, using an example of a specific organization instead of focusing on several different ones is more useful.
• Personal examples You can recount your past personal experiences and incorporate them to support your ideas or claims.
• Hypothetical examples It is possible to create examples by observing events or looking at different facts. For instance, you can include a hypothetical example of what might happen in 2030 based on your overall argument.

Exemplification Essay Conclusion

Knowing how to write an exemplification essay is insufficient without understanding how the conclusion is written. The conclusion of an exemplification essay summarizes the main claims analyzed in the body of your work. Nevertheless, you should do more than this. You can reflect on the wider importance of your topic, explain why it is challenging to find a decisive stand on the posed question, raise another issue that can be analyzed later, or recommend or predict what will happen to the topic. When writing an exemplification essay concluding paragraph, start with general statements before being more specific towards the end. Initiate your conclusion essay by re-emphasizing your thesis before summarizing your key ideas, and finish off by highlighting the importance of your topic or recommending ideas to address the issue.

How to Write an Exemplification Essay Step-By-Step?

Up to this section, you understand what this type of writing is and have seen examples of topics and ways of structuring your work. Let us focus on the actual process of writing an exemplification essay. As with any task, you cannot just start doing it. Even though some people may try, it is not an effective way of composing a good paper. You need a plan as this makes your writing easier, faster, and with a better flow. Below are the eight steps on how to write a good exemplification essay.

1. Brainstorm Ideas

There is a high chance that you have a lot of ideas, thoughts, issues, and solutions you may want to analyze. Brainstorming helps extract an endless number of concepts for your exemplification essay by writing them down. Start with prompts, sentences, or words related to a specific subject area or focus, such as the environment, drugs, or technology, before jotting all phrases and words popping into your mind. You do not have to adhere to grammar, sentence structure, or spelling rules at this step. Brainstorm for about ten minutes, review your list, consider compelling exemplification essay topics , and select the one to focus on. This will help you write an exemplary essay later.

2. Conduct Research

Now that you have a topic for your exemplification essay, you must still decide on a specific matter that you can support with evidence. Therefore, conducting research is essential as it enables you to identify diverse angles and issues about your topic and determine a clear purpose for your writing task. Then, focus your research on this purpose, which will lead to taking a stand on the subject and choosing examples for your exemplification essay. Remember to use only credible sources during your investigation. Consider evidence such as published books by reliable authors, peer-reviewed journal articles from trustworthy databases such as ERIC or PUBMED, and primary sources such as newspaper articles, original speeches, and pieces of art.

3. Choose Relevant Examples

At this stage, create a list of material evidence related to the purpose of your paper. Begin by listing all examples passing through your mind. You will develop a narrow list later. Be sure to select only relevant pieces of evidence that align with your purpose and support your stand. You cannot select illustrations that contradict your objective. There are no rules to assist you in deciding the type of source that can be used in your work. Nonetheless, it is common for exemplification essays to combine several best sources and link them together fittingly. Consider an example of exemplification essay provided later in this blog for further clarification.

4. Create an Outline for Exemplification Essay

Once you have fully understood all the aspects of your writing task, identified your purpose, and collected enough examples, you can create a skeleton of your work or an outline. This involves organizing the details in a suitable structure, which will be used to write your exemplification essay. It is also the time in the writing process when you consider your position or thesis statement, which enables you to arrange the introduction, body, and conclusion sections for your main claim. Look at the example of an exemplification essay outline offered earlier. Use the provided information and structure to create your essay outline.

5. Come Up With an Exemplification Essay Thesis

Your exemplification writing will be incomplete without a thesis statement. It is what tells readers the theme you are exemplifying. But how do you write a thesis for an exemplification essay? If you have a topic, consider what you would say about it in your paper. Start with a general statement before specifying your main claim. Ensure your thesis is arguable. It should also tell your audience what they can expect in the body of your paper. Moreover, choose your words wisely by avoiding general and boring expressions such as good and cheap. Consider this exemplification essay thesis example:

Diversity within organizations drives innovation because of a variety of opinions, cultural backgrounds, and worldviews.

6. Write Exemplification Essay Body Paragraphs

Now that you have everything you need for the task, understanding how to write an exemplification essay body is essential in support of your main claim. The number of paragraphs in this section depends on the task instructions or points in your thesis. Each paragraph must be related to your main claim directly and contain at least one exemplification example. Arrange your paragraphs logically to avoid any confusion. Also, use transitional phrases and words to direct your readers throughout your exemplification essay. Your outline is useful at this stage as you can just fill in the sections. Consider these exemplification paragraph examples:

Example of the 1st body paragraph

The convenience of technology affects face-to-face communication negatively. Studies have found that participating in interpersonal interactions using the internet, such as through short messages, e-mails, social media, and chats, results in shallow exchanges, challenges establishing social support and impersonality (citation). This is because virtual communication lacks warmth, non-verbal cues, and does not require engagement.

Example of the 2nd body paragraph

One of the reasons cars are stolen is driver forgetfulness. For example, failure to lock car doors or leaving the engine running while the car keys are in the ignition give thieves an opening to steal easily. In turn, this shows that stupid mistakes increase the likelihood of car thefts.

7. Summarize an Exemplification Paper

It is also necessary to write an exemplification conclusion. This section contains a summary of your major ideas. Restating your arguments for the audience is important. Nonetheless, do not forget to use different words than that in the introduction and body. A conclusion should not look like an introduction. Remember to clarify the key takeaway for your audience or the implications of your argument. Look at this example of an exemplification essay conclusion:

The examples in this paper prove that technological advancements affect physical interactions between people adversely. People are increasingly reliant on tablets, phones, PCs, and other devices for communicating with family and friends while neglecting personal engagements. The long-term effect of technology on communication in society is still inconclusive. However, it is clear that the face-to-face interactions between people, as previously understood, have transformed for good.

8. Proofread Your Exemplification Essay

Feeling anxious about submitting your exemplification essay assignment is normal. Maybe you are not sure if you meet the task expectations. Understandably, you intend to deliver a perfect paper and avoid mistakes. Proofreading is an important phase as it helps correct blunders such as writing inconsistencies, vocabulary and sentence errors, the flow of points, and generalized errors. You can have your colleagues or friends do it for you but ensure that they are proficient in exemplification writing. Also, you need to verify your work personally to confirm that it is written clearly.

How to Structure an Exemplification Essay?

A major skill in writing exemplification essays is organization. Reflect on how you present the order of mini-points supporting your thesis statement. This is commonly called the order of importance, and you can organize an exemplification essay using one of the three techniques:

• Chronological Organize your ideas based on a time sequence.
• Ascending Arrange your points from the least important to the most important, as this leaves your audience with your strongest point. The ideas are developed gradually into a powerful message at the end of the paper.
• Descending Using this structure, you begin your main paragraphs in the body with stronger/compelling points and work down to the least important ideas gradually.

Be sure to check samples of exemplification essays and see how these structures are presented.

Exemplification Essay Examples

If you are still unsure of your knowledge of this kind of writing, it is a good practice to examine an exemplification essay sample and consider how perfectly written papers are composed. Nonetheless, ensure that any sample you access is written by a credible author and is approved by your instructor. Reading good examples of exemplification essay makes things easier during the writing process. A list of free exemplification essays examples is provided below.

Exemplification essay example 1

Exemplification essay example 2

Exemplification essay example 3

Exemplification essay example 4

Exemplification Essay Writing Tips

At this point, you should have a good understanding of how to write exemplification essay. Here are additional tips:

• Consider your audience. Think about how they feel about your main argument.
• Avoid vague statements and extensive generalizations in your exemplification essays. Rather, focus on specific details, evidence, or examples.
• Regarding your exemplification essay format, ensure to use only the specified style, e.g. MLA, APA style paper , etc.
• When selecting exemplification writing examples, do not depend too much on personal experiences as they lack enough support from others to be reliable. Use them as an enhancement of other reliable sources. They should not be your first choice of evidence.

Exemplification Essay Checklist

The ideas discussed in this article aim to help you write an exemplification essay correctly. You can also learn more about the conventions and principles of an exemplification essay by looking at a sample of an exemplification essay provided earlier. Here is a checklist of other points to remember:

• checkbox What is your main point?
• checkbox Do you have a thesis statement?
• checkbox Are your topic sentences related to your thesis? Are they to the point?
• checkbox Is the first sentence of your introduction engaging and interesting?
• checkbox Does each body paragraph have at least one clear example, have enough information about it, and contain a transition sentence?
• checkbox Have you summarized key ideas in your conclusion?
• checkbox Have you cited all your sources according to the specified style?

Bottom Line on Writing an Exemplification Essay

Reaching this far means that you know what is exemplification in writing and can comfortably compose a compelling and interesting paper. Other important points include structuring your essay and how to write a good exemplification essay. Grasping these ideas requires that you practice writing regularly and apply them throughout the entire process. But if you still find it challenging to start, you can find free exemplification essay example in pdf and observe how ideas in this article are applied. Be sure to use the information provided here as a reliable reference whenever you face difficulties or are stuck somewhere during the actual writing.

Feel free to contact StudyCrumb! As a top academic writing platform, StudyCrumb provides you with high-quality essays done according to your needs. Leave a ‘ write my college essay for me ’ call and receive a custom paper.

FAQ About Exemplification Essays

1. what is exemplification.

Exemplification refers to the use of examples or evidence to make abstract concepts more concrete and broad statements more explicit. We do not believe others just because they said something. We want clarification or proof, and exemplification is how you offer the proof.

2. What is the purpose of exemplification writing?

The goal of exemplification writing is to demonstrate something using vivid and specific examples. This adds additional information to describe, define, persuade, or show a general concept. Examples enable audiences to understand the intended meaning clearly. The key is using enough details and relevant examples.

3. What are characteristics of an exemplification essay?

These are the exemplification essay characteristics:

• Generalization of an issue or statement of the controlling idea/thesis.
• Use of applicable and detailed examples to offer more explanation in support of the thesis.
• Examples should be enough and be organized logically.
• The generalization should be well-researched.

4. How to start an exemplification essay?

Start an exemplification essay with an attention grabber or a hook before introducing your topic and giving background information about it. The hook engages your audience and keeps them reading to find out more information. You should then state your generalization or thesis statement.

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

You may also like

Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Interpersonal Relationship — Friendship

Essays on Friendship

Friendship essay topics and outline examples, essay title 1: the essence of friendship: understanding, nurturing, and sustaining meaningful connections.

Thesis Statement: This essay explores the multifaceted nature of friendship, delving into the qualities that define meaningful connections, the importance of empathy and trust, and the ways individuals can nurture and sustain lifelong friendships.

• Introduction
• The Essence of Friendship: Definition and Characteristics
• Building Strong Bonds: Trust, Empathy, and Open Communication
• The Role of Shared Experiences: Memories, Challenges, and Growth
• Friendship Across Generations: Childhood, Adolescence, and Adulthood
• Nurturing Lifelong Friendships: Strategies for Maintaining Close Connections
• The Power of Friendship: Positive Effects on Mental and Emotional Well-being
• Conclusion: The Enduring Significance of Friendship in Human Lives

Essay Title 2: Digital Friendships in the Age of Social Media: Examining the Impact of Online Connections

Thesis Statement: This essay explores the evolving landscape of friendship in the digital age, analyzing the benefits and challenges of online friendships, the role of social media, and the impact of virtual connections on social interaction.

• The Rise of Digital Friendships: Social Media, Forums, and Virtual Communities
• Online vs. Offline Friendships: A Comparative Analysis
• Challenges of Digital Friendships: Miscommunication, Isolation, and Cyberbullying
• The Positive Side: Support, Networking, and Global Connections
• Social Media and Friendship Maintenance: The Role of Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
• The Future of Friendship: Technology's Influence on Social Interaction
• Conclusion: Navigating the Complex World of Digital Friendships

Essay Title 3: Cross-Cultural Friendships: Exploring the Dynamics, Challenges, and Rewards of Global Connections

Thesis Statement: This essay focuses on cross-cultural friendships, examining the dynamics of friendships that transcend borders and cultures, the challenges of intercultural communication, and the enriching experiences that arise from diverse friendships.

• Cross-Cultural Friendships Defined: Sharing Lives Across Borders
• Communication Across Cultures: Language, Values, and Cultural Sensitivity
• The Challenges of Cross-Cultural Friendships: Misunderstandings and Stereotypes
• The Rewards of Diversity: Broadened Perspectives, Cultural Exchange, and Global Citizenship
• Case Studies: Real-Life Stories of Cross-Cultural Friendships
• Building Bridges: Strategies for Cultivating and Sustaining Cross-Cultural Friendships
• Conclusion: Embracing Diversity and Celebrating the Unity of Global Friendships

TOP Friendship Titles for Essays

• The True Meaning of Friendship: Exploring Deep Connections
• Friendship in the Digital Age: Navigating Online and Offline Relationships
• The Role of Friendship in Personal Growth and Development
• From Acquaintances to Best Friends: The Journey of Building Trust
• Friendship Across Cultures: How Different Societies View Companionship
• The Impact of Childhood Friendships on Adult Life
• Friendship and Mental Health: The Power of Supportive Relationships
• Challenges and Triumphs in Long-Distance Friendships
• Unlikely Friendships: Stories of Bonds Formed Against the Odds
• Famous Friendships in Literature and History: Lessons Learned
• The Evolution of Friendship: How Relationships Change Over Time
• Friendship and Betrayal: Understanding and Overcoming Broken Trust
• Friendship as a Social Construct: Theories and Perspectives
• The Role of Friendship in Overcoming Adversity
• Friendship Dynamics: Balancing Individuality and Togetherness
• How to Cultivate Lifelong Friendships: Tips and Strategies
• Friendship and Social Media: Enhancing or Hindering Connections?
• The Influence of Friendship on Academic and Professional Success
• Friendship in Adulthood: Maintaining Connections Amidst Busy Lives
• The Healing Power of Friendship: Support in Times of Grief and Loss

What is The Real Definition of a True Friendship

A letter to my best friend, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences

+ experts online

My Experience in Friendship

A personal experience with true friendship, friendship and its importance in our life, the true meaning of the word friendship, let us write you an essay from scratch.

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

The Importance and Role of My Best Friend in My Life

Friendship is a very special relationship, the role of friendship in my life, how great it is to have a friend, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

Expert-written essays crafted with your exact needs in mind

The Role of Friend in a Person’s Life

How friendship helps students succeed in the university, my best friend and his role in my life, true friendship in stephen chbosky's the perks of being a wallflower, friendship depends on the individuals and circumstances, a distinctive friendship in finding forrester, an experience of my friendship with a narcissist, friendship in of mice and men, the importance of friendship in the epic of gilgamesh, the role of mindset in romantic relationships, the day i met an amazing friend, whether to share everything with my best friends, difference between two of my friends, shared regard and religious fraternity in fellowship, the most important person in my life, the loss of a pet that changed my life, making friends and the importance of friendship, my personal experience of women friendship, friendships between huck and jim in the adventures of huckleberry finn, kevin land's "landless land".

Friendship is a close relationship between two or more people characterized by mutual affection and trust.

• Studies have shown that having strong friendships can increase overall happiness and life satisfaction.
• Close friendships can actually improve physical health by reducing stress and lowering blood pressure.
• Friendships can last a lifetime, with some friendships spanning decades or even a lifetime.
• Friendships can be formed at any age, from childhood to old age.
• Friendships can come in many forms, from casual acquaintances to best friends who feel like family.

Friendship is an important topic because it plays a crucial role in our emotional well-being and overall quality of life. Strong friendships provide support, companionship, and a sense of belonging, which are essential for mental health and happiness. Understanding the dynamics of friendship can help individuals cultivate and maintain meaningful relationships, leading to a fulfilling and satisfying life.

Relevant topics

• Personal Identity
• Effects of Social Media
• Social Justice
• Media Analysis
• Discourse Community
• American Identity
• Cultural Appropriation
• Sociological Imagination
• Social Media

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Bibliography

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Essay Papers Writing Online

Step-by-step guide on writing a comprehensive exemplification essay that will captivate your readers.

Delving into the realm of academic writing requires honing various skills, one of them being the ability to present ideas in a manner that is both persuasive and illustrative. An exemplification essay serves as a powerful tool in achieving this goal. By employing powerful examples, this form of writing allows the writer to provide concrete evidence to support their claims and engage their audience intellectually. Whether you are a seasoned writer or a novice in the field of essay writing, mastering the art of crafting exemplary exemplification essays will undoubtedly benefit your academic journey.

At its core, an exemplification essay is an exercise in persuasion and argumentation. Unlike other forms of writing, this essay format aims to provide real-life examples and factual evidence to validate the writer’s point of view. By using a combination of logic and vivid illustrations, the writer can effectively communicate complex ideas and concepts to their readers. Furthermore, this style of writing allows the writer to tap into their creative instincts and present their arguments in a compelling and thought-provoking manner.

One of the key aspects of writing an exemplification essay lies in the ability to select appropriate and compelling examples that resonate with the readers. These examples act as the backbone of the essay, lending credibility and depth to the writer’s arguments. Carefully chosen examples not only provide evidence and support to the writer’s claims but also have the power to emotionally engage the readers. By incorporating elements of storytelling and personal experiences, the writer can forge a strong connection with their audience, making their essay all the more powerful and persuasive.

Understanding the Exemplification Essay

When it comes to crafting a compelling piece of writing, utilizing various forms of evidence can have a powerful impact on the reader. One such form is exemplification, which involves using specific examples to support or illustrate a concept, idea, or argument. By presenting concrete instances or cases, exemplification allows the writer to lend credibility and clarity to their message, making it easier for the reader to grasp and engage with the content. Understanding how to effectively employ exemplification in an essay can enhance its persuasiveness and overall effectiveness.

What is an exemplification essay and its purpose?

An exemplification essay is a type of academic writing that aims to provide examples or evidence to support a specific claim or argument. This type of essay is often used to illustrate or demonstrate a point, idea, or belief. The main purpose of an exemplification essay is to convince the readers of the validity and relevance of the claim being made.

In an exemplification essay, the writer must use examples, facts, statistics, and other types of evidence to support their thesis statement. These examples and evidence should be carefully chosen and presented in a logical and persuasive manner. The writer should use clear and concise language to effectively communicate their argument and make a strong case.

Furthermore, the purpose of an exemplification essay is not only to provide evidence but also to analyze and explain the significance of the examples used. The writer should go beyond simply presenting examples and instead offer insightful analysis that helps the reader understand the implications and importance of the evidence presented.

Overall, an exemplification essay serves the purpose of persuading the reader by providing convincing examples and evidence. It requires careful selection of examples, thorough analysis of those examples, and effective communication of the writer’s argument. By doing so, the writer can create a compelling and persuasive essay that supports their thesis statement and engages the reader.

Choosing a Topic for Your Exemplification Essay

When it comes to writing an exemplification essay, the first and foremost step is to select a suitable topic that can effectively demonstrate your thesis statement. The topic you choose should be specific, engaging, and relevant to the subject at hand. It should present a clear and concise argument that can be supported with relevant examples and evidence.

When brainstorming for a topic, consider areas of interest or expertise that you possess. Think about subjects that you are passionate about or have a deep understanding of. This will enable you to have a strong foundation and familiarity with the topic, making it easier to find and present suitable examples.

Additionally, it is important to choose a topic that is relevant to your audience. Consider their interests, knowledge, and perspectives when selecting a topic. This will help you to engage and captivate your readers, as well as ensure that your essay is meaningful and impactful.

Furthermore, try to choose a topic that is unique and distinctive. Look for areas that have not been extensively covered or explored in existing literature. This will allow you to bring a new perspective or shed light on lesser-known aspects, making your essay stand out and grab the attention of your readers.

In conclusion, while choosing a topic for your exemplification essay, consider selecting a subject that you are passionate about, relevant to your audience, and unique in its approach. This will enable you to effectively demonstrate your thesis statement and provide compelling examples to support your argument.

How to select the right subject and find relevant examples?

The process of selecting the appropriate subject and finding relevant examples is crucial when writing an exemplification essay. It requires careful consideration and research to ensure that the chosen topic is both interesting and suitable for providing convincing examples.

To begin, it is important to brainstorm potential subjects that align with the overall theme or message you want to convey in your essay. Consider topics that spark your interest and have enough depth to support the arguments and examples you plan to present. Additionally, think about the target audience and what subjects would resonate with them.

Once you have a list of potential subjects, narrow down your options by evaluating the availability of relevant examples. The examples should be specific and diverse, representing different perspectives and scenarios related to the subject. Conduct thorough research and gather evidence from credible sources to ensure that you can find enough examples to support your arguments.

Furthermore, consider the uniqueness of the subject and examples you choose. It is important to select a subject that stands out and offers a fresh perspective, rather than a widely discussed or cliché topic. This will make your essay more engaging and memorable to the readers.

As you evaluate your options and conduct research, keep in mind the main purpose of your exemplification essay. Are you trying to persuade the readers, provide a solution to a problem, or analyze a specific concept? This clarity of purpose will help you select a subject and examples that align with your essay’s objectives.

In conclusion, selecting the right subject and finding relevant examples is a crucial step in writing an exemplification essay. It requires careful consideration, research, and evaluation of the potential topics and their associated examples. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your essay is focused, compelling, and effectively supports your arguments and viewpoints.

Conducting In-depth Research for Your Exemplification Essay

When it comes to crafting an exceptional exemplification essay, thorough research is an essential step in the writing process. Adequate research lays the foundation for a well-supported argument and helps to convey the intended message effectively. In this section, we will explore the importance of conducting in-depth research for your exemplification essay and provide useful tips to help you gather relevant and reliable information.

1. Define your topic: Before diving into research, it is important to have a clear understanding of your essay topic. Define the main idea or argument you want to discuss and create a list of relevant keywords that will guide your research.

2. Utilize academic databases: Academic databases are treasure troves of scholarly articles, research papers, and publications. They provide access to high-quality and peer-reviewed sources that can greatly enhance the credibility of your essay. Visit your college or university library website to browse through these databases or use online platforms like JSTOR and Google Scholar.

3. Consult reputable sources: In addition to academic databases, it is important to consult reputable sources such as government websites, research institutes, and reputable news outlets. These sources often provide data, statistics, and expert opinions that can add weight to your arguments.

4. Take notes: As you conduct your research, it is crucial to take notes in an organized manner. Jot down key points, quotes, and references that you may want to include in your essay. This will save you time when it comes to writing and referencing your sources properly.

5. Evaluate the reliability of your sources: Not all sources are created equal. It is important to evaluate the reliability and credibility of the sources you use. Consider the author’s credentials, the publication date, and whether the information is backed up by other reputable sources.

6. Seek different perspectives: To develop a well-rounded argument, it is important to seek different perspectives on your topic. Look for sources that present opposing viewpoints or alternative theories. This will demonstrate your ability to critically analyze the subject matter and strengthen your argument.

7. Keep track of your sources: Lastly, it is crucial to keep track of all your sources for proper citation and referencing. Use citation management tools like Zotero or EndNote to organize your sources and generate citations automatically. This will ensure that you give credit to all the authors whose work you have used in your essay.

By conducting in-depth research, you lay a solid foundation for your exemplification essay and ensure that your arguments are well-supported and backed up by reliable sources. Make use of the tips mentioned above, and you will be on your way to producing a compelling and impactful essay.

How to gather credible sources and evidence?

When writing an exemplification essay, it is crucial to gather credible sources and evidence to support your arguments and make your essay more convincing. In order to do so, you need to conduct thorough research and carefully select trustworthy sources.

The first step in gathering credible sources is to identify the type of information you need for your essay. Determine the specific topic and subtopics you will be discussing, and then think about the types of sources that would provide the most relevant and reliable information. This can include scholarly articles, peer-reviewed journals, books, reputable websites, and expert interviews. Remember to look for sources that are up-to-date and have been published recently to ensure the information is current.

Once you have identified the types of sources you need, it is time to start your research. Utilize academic databases, libraries, and online resources to find relevant sources. Be sure to critically evaluate each source for its credibility and reliability. Consider the author’s expertise and credentials, the publication or website’s reputation, and whether the information is supported by other credible sources.

Take notes as you conduct your research, highlighting or summarizing key information from each source. This will make it easier to refer back to the sources when you are writing your essay and citing your evidence. It is important to keep track of the source information, including the author’s name, publication date, title of the source, and page numbers, so that you can properly cite them in your essay.

As you gather your evidence, remember to use a variety of credible sources to support your arguments. This will add depth and credibility to your essay. Avoid relying too heavily on a single source or type of source, as this may limit the diversity of your evidence.

In conclusion, gathering credible sources and evidence is an essential step in writing an effective exemplification essay. By following these steps and carefully selecting trustworthy sources, you can ensure that your essay is well-supported, credible, and persuasive.

Organizing Your Exemplification Essay

Arranging and structuring the content of your exemplification essay is essential to effectively convey your message and support your argument. By carefully organizing your essay, you can ensure that your examples are presented in a logical and coherent manner, making it easier for your readers to follow your line of reasoning.

One effective way to organize your exemplification essay is through the use of a table. A table allows you to categorize and group your examples based on specific criteria or themes. This not only helps you present your examples in an organized manner but also enables your readers to quickly grasp the main points you are trying to make.

Start by creating a table with several columns. Each column represents a different category or theme that you want to explore in your essay. For example, if you are writing an essay about the benefits of exercise, you might have columns for physical health, mental health, and social well-being.

Under each column, list your examples that support the specific category or theme. Be sure to provide detailed and relevant examples that clearly illustrate your points. This will not only strengthen your argument but also demonstrate your ability to provide concrete evidence to support your claims.

Once you have organized your examples into categories, you can then proceed to develop your essay by discussing each category in more detail. Start by introducing the category and explaining its significance. Then, provide a thorough analysis of each example within the category, highlighting its relevance and impact.

Remember to use transitions between categories and examples to ensure a smooth flow of ideas. Transitions help guide your readers through your essay and make it easier for them to follow your thought process. Use words and phrases like “firstly,” “secondly,” “in addition,” “furthermore,” and “finally” to signal the relationships between your categories and examples.

In conclusion, organizing your exemplification essay is crucial for effectively presenting your arguments and examples. By using a table to categorize your examples and providing a clear structure to your essay, you can make it easier for your readers to understand and appreciate your perspective. So, take the time to carefully plan and organize your essay, and you will increase the chances of making a compelling and persuasive argument.

What is the best structure and format to use?

When it comes to writing an exemplification essay, a well-organized structure and format are key to effectively presenting your arguments and supporting evidence. By using a clear and logical structure, you can guide your readers through your essay and ensure that your points are presented in a coherent and persuasive manner.

One popular structure for an exemplification essay is the classic five-paragraph format. This format includes an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should provide a brief overview of the topic and a thesis statement that clearly states your main argument. The body paragraphs should each focus on a different supporting point, with each paragraph providing examples and evidence to support your argument. Finally, the conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis.

Another option is to use a more flexible structure, such as the block pattern or the point-by-point pattern. The block pattern involves presenting all of your points about one topic before moving on to the next, while the point-by-point pattern involves alternating between discussing each point for both topics. Both of these structures can be effective, so choose the one that best suits your topic and argument.

In terms of formatting, it’s important to follow any guidelines or requirements provided by your instructor or institution. Typically, exemplification essays are written in MLA or APA format. This includes using a specific font and size, double-spacing the document, and including a title page and a list of references if necessary.

Regardless of the structure or format you choose, it’s important to remember the overall goal of your exemplification essay: to provide clear and convincing evidence to support your argument. By using a well-organized structure and adhering to the appropriate formatting guidelines, you can ensure that your essay effectively communicates your ideas and persuades your readers.

How to capture the reader’s attention and present your main argument?

In order to create a compelling exemplification essay, it is essential to not only grab the reader’s attention but also effectively present your main argument. By using strategic writing techniques, you can ensure that your essay captures the interest of your audience and effectively conveys your message.

One powerful way to grab the reader’s attention is by starting your essay with a captivating hook. This can be a thought-provoking question, an interesting fact or statistic, a compelling anecdote, or a shocking statement. By presenting something unexpected or intriguing in the opening lines of your essay, you can immediately engage the reader and motivate them to continue reading.

After capturing the reader’s attention, it is important to clearly present your main argument. This can be done through a thesis statement, which should concisely express the main point or claim of your essay. The thesis statement typically appears at the end of the introduction paragraph and serves as a roadmap for the reader, outlining the main ideas that will be discussed in the essay.

In addition to a strong thesis statement, it is vital to provide sufficient evidence and examples to support your main argument. This can be achieved through the use of specific examples, relevant facts, and expert opinions. By presenting well-researched evidence, you can effectively persuade the reader and strengthen your overall argument.

Furthermore, it is important to organize your essay in a logical and coherent manner. This can be done by using clear topic sentences for each paragraph and ensuring that each paragraph contributes to the development of your main argument. Transitions between paragraphs should also be smooth and seamless, helping the reader to follow your train of thought.

Finally, consider the tone and language used in your essay. By adopting a confident and persuasive tone, you can establish yourself as a credible and trustworthy author. Additionally, using clear and concise language will help to ensure that your ideas are communicated effectively and efficiently.

Overall, capturing the reader’s attention and presenting your main argument require careful planning and execution. By employing the strategies outlined above, you can create an exemplification essay that not only engages the reader but also effectively conveys your message.

Related Post

How to master the art of writing expository essays and captivate your audience, convenient and reliable source to purchase college essays online, step-by-step guide to crafting a powerful literary analysis essay, unlock success with a comprehensive business research paper example guide, unlock your writing potential with writers college – transform your passion into profession, “unlocking the secrets of academic success – navigating the world of research papers in college”, master the art of sociological expression – elevate your writing skills in sociology.

Exemplification Essay: Easy Guide and Structure

Did you know that Steve Jobs, the visionary co-founder of Apple, often utilized exemplification techniques to convey complex ideas with simplicity? It's not merely about randomly tossing in examples; it's about strategically weaving them to create a compelling narrative. Picture your ideas resonating with the clarity that Jobs brought to his iconic product launches.

As we delve into this guide, you'll discover the secret sauce behind how to write an exemplification essay, where each example isn't just a statistic but a carefully chosen beacon of persuasion. Are you ready to master the art of crafting essays that not only inform but also leave a lasting impact? Then, our expert writers, who you can pay for essays , will unravel the mysteries, share insider tips, and provide you with a personal blueprint to hone your essay to new heights.

What Is an Exemplification Essay

An exemplification essay definition isn't about bombarding people with as many examples as you can – it's about strategically choosing the right ones to make your case. Imagine you have a strong belief or idea you want to share with others—maybe it's the importance of a healthy lifestyle or the impact of climate change. This type of essay is your vehicle to not just tell people about it but to show them through examples.

Here's the deal: instead of just stating your point, you carefully select real-life examples to back it up. It's like you're building a case, presenting evidence in the form of specific instances, scenarios, or anecdotes. Think of these examples as your persuasive tools, convincing your readers that your idea isn't just a theory; it's backed by concrete, relatable situations.

So, whether you're arguing about the significance of renewable energy or discussing the challenges of work-life balance, you're essentially saying, 'Hey, look at this example—it perfectly illustrates what I'm talking about!' It's the art of turning abstract concepts into tangible, relatable stories.

But there's a skill to it. It's not about drowning your essay in examples; it's about choosing them wisely and strategically to build a compelling narrative. This way, your readers not only understand your point but also connect with it on a personal level.

Need Help With Your Homework?

Get a hand from professional writers asap!

Why Write an Exemplification Essay

Now that we've got a grasp on what these essays are let's tackle the big question: Why bother writing an exemplification essay?

According to our essay writer service these essays are like a secret weapon for making your ideas stick. Have you ever had that moment where you explain something, and people go, 'Huh?' Well, an exemplary essay is your antidote to that confusion.

Imagine you're arguing for the importance of environmental conservation. You could talk about it in broad terms, or you could dive into specific examples – like the success stories of communities turning green or the consequences of neglecting our planet. These examples make your point hit home. It's not just an idea anymore; it's a real, tangible thing.

Secondly, writing such an essay hones your skills in presenting a compelling case. It's like becoming a persuasive storyteller. Think about it – you're not just convincing people of your viewpoint; you're showing them the proof.

And here's the kicker: it makes your writing more relatable. People connect with stories with real-life situations. Your essay isn't just a piece of writing; it's a conversation.

How to Write an Exemplification Essay in 10 Steps

Now, let's break down the writing process into ten straightforward steps that will transform your ideas into a persuasive narrative. So, grab your writing toolkit and kick off this guided journey!

1. Select a Subject

Choosing the right subject sets the stage for writing exemplification essay. The key here is to opt for a topic that not only interests you but also allows for a range of examples to support your ideas. Here are five examples:

• The Impact of Virtual Museums on Access to Art: Explore how digital platforms are changing the way people experience and engage with art.
• DIY Culture and Its Influence on Creativity: Examine the role of do-it-yourself culture in fostering creativity and self-expression in various fields.
• The Evolution of Personal Finance Apps: Investigate how technology has transformed the landscape of personal finance and money management.
• Ephemeral Art Installations and Public Spaces: Explore the temporary nature of art installations in public spaces and their impact on community dynamics.
• The Intersection of Technology and Mindfulness Practices: Examine how technology is being integrated into mindfulness practices, from meditation apps to virtual wellness experiences.

Also, make sure not to miss our narrative essay topics . It's your secret stash of diverse ideas that can spark your creativity and add that extra flair to your writing!

2. Generate Ideas

Now that you've got your subject locked in, it's time to let those creative juices flow and generate a bunch of exemplification essay ideas. Think of it like brainstorming, but with a twist – you're not just jotting down anything; you're focusing on examples that vividly illustrate your chosen subject.

Consider the subject 'The Impact of Technology on Daily Life.' Start by thinking about specific instances or scenarios where technology has played a significant role. How about the influence of smartphones on communication or the transformative power of social media?

Remember, you're not looking for just one example; you're building a pool of possibilities. Don't worry about refining them just yet – we'll get to that. And if you're rather concerned - 'If I could pay someone to write my research paper ,' our experts are always at your service.

3. Select Suitable Examples

Alright, you've got a bunch of ideas swirling around, and now it's time to play matchmaker. In this step, you're narrowing down your pool of examples to the ones that best fit your essay's narrative.

Let's say your subject is 'The Impact of Technology on Daily Life,' and one of your ideas is the influence of smartphones on communication. Now, consider if this example aligns seamlessly with your overall message. Does it vividly illustrate your point about the transformative role of technology?

4. Develop an Exemplification Essay Outline

Now that you've handpicked your star examples, it's time to give your essay a solid structure. Start with the introduction – set the stage for your readers by introducing your subject and hinting at the examples they can expect. Then, map out your body paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a specific example, showcasing its significance and tying it back to your overall theme.

Consider the subject 'The Impact of Technology on Daily Life.' Your outline might look like this:

I. Introduction

• Briefly introduce the impact of technology on daily life.
• State your thesis, highlighting the key examples that will be explored.

II. Body Paragraphs

• Paragraph 1: Discuss the influence of smartphones on communication.
• Provide real-life examples illustrating this impact.
• Explain how these examples support your thesis.
• Paragraph 2: Explore the transformative power of social media.
• Present specific instances of social media's impact.
• Connect these examples to your overarching theme.

III. Conclusion

• Summarize the key examples and their collective impact.
• Reinforce the thesis statement and leave readers with a thought-provoking conclusion.

5. Craft an Exemplification Essay Introduction

Now that your blueprint is in place, it's time to captivate your readers from the get-go with a compelling introduction.

For instance, using our previous subject, consider starting with a thought-provoking question or a startling fact about the increasing integration of technology. Invite your readers into the narrative and give them a glimpse of the examples they're about to explore.

Here's a sample introduction:

'Have you ever stopped to ponder the profound ways in which technology infiltrates our daily lives? From the intimate realms of communication to the vast landscapes of social interactions, the impact is undeniable. In an era dominated by smartphones and social media, our existence is intricately woven into the fabric of technological advancements. In this paper, I will examine the transformative examples that illustrate how technology shapes our daily reality.'

6. Construct Exemplification Essay Body Paragraphs

Now comes the meaty part – constructing the body paragraphs of your essay. Each paragraph should shine a spotlight on a specific example, showcasing its relevance and impact.

Continuing with the subject, let's delve into constructing the body paragraphs:

• Paragraph 1: The Influence of Smartphones on Communication
• Introduce the example with a clear topic sentence.
• Provide specific instances of how smartphones have altered communication dynamics.
• Connect each example back to your thesis, emphasizing the transformative impact.
• Paragraph 2: The Transformative Power of Social Media
• Kick off with a distinct topic sentence.
• Present real-life situations illustrating social media's profound impact.
• Establish the link between these examples and your central theme.

Title: Got a Story Itching to Break Free?

Text: Your ideas are itching for the limelight – let's set them free and watch the magic unfold!

Button: Hit Play on Brilliance

7. Incorporate Supporting Evidence

As you dive into the details of each example, don't forget to fortify your narrative with supporting evidence. Whether it's statistics, expert quotes, or relevant studies, these elements add credibility and depth to your exemplification essay example.

For instance, when discussing the influence of smartphones on communication, you might incorporate survey results or testimonials that highlight the changing patterns of interpersonal connection. Similarly, when exploring the impact of social media, consider weaving in relevant studies showcasing its role in shaping societal norms.

Supporting evidence not only strengthens your argument but also provides readers with a solid foundation to comprehend the broader implications of your examples.

8. Conclude Your Essay Effectively

As you approach the conclusion of effective exemplification essay examples, it's time to bring everything together and leave a lasting impression. Your conclusion might look like this:

'In conclusion, the examples clearly show how technology significantly affects our daily lives. Whether it's changing how we communicate with smartphones or influencing societal dynamics through social media, the evidence is convincing. Technology isn't just a tool; it plays a powerful role in shaping our reality. As we adapt to these changes, it's important to be aware of their significant effects and regularly consider how we navigate this constantly evolving technological landscape.'

You might also want to check out our IEEE format example . This resource provides a practical demonstration of how to format your citations according to IEEE standards, ensuring precision and adherence to the specific guidelines.

9. Acknowledge Counter-arguments

Great essays consider multiple perspectives. Acknowledging counter-arguments demonstrates a thorough understanding of your subject and adds nuance to your essay.

Using our example, you might address concerns about technology's negative impact on privacy or the potential for social media to contribute to misinformation. Discussing these counter-arguments briefly allows you to strengthen your stance by addressing potential doubts.

For instance:

'While the transformative impact of technology is undeniable, it's essential to acknowledge concerns about privacy in an interconnected world. Some argue that our reliance on smartphones and social media compromises our personal information. While this concern is valid, it's crucial to navigate this digital landscape with informed choices, striking a balance between connectivity and safeguarding our privacy.'

By incorporating counter-arguments, you demonstrate a nuanced understanding of your topic and enhance the overall credibility of your essay.

10. Thoroughly Proofread and Edit Your Essay

Congratulations! You successfully grasped how to write an exemplification essay, and now it's time to refine it further through careful proofreading and editing. This step is like polishing a gem to ensure it shines brightly. Here's a systematic approach according to our custom dissertation writing service :

• Read Aloud: Hearing your essay allows you to catch awkward phrasing, errors, or areas that need improvement.
• Check Flow: Ensure each paragraph smoothly transitions to the next. Your essay should have a logical progression, guiding readers effortlessly from one point to the next.
• Verify Coherence: Confirm that each example aligns with your thesis and contributes to the overall narrative. Remove any instances that may disrupt the flow.
• Grammar and Punctuation: Scrutinize for grammatical errors, punctuation mishaps, and spelling issues. Precision in language enhances the clarity of your message.
• Consistency: Maintain consistency in your writing style, tense, and formatting throughout the essay. It creates a polished and professional presentation.
• Address Feedback: If possible, seek feedback from others. Fresh eyes can catch things you might have overlooked.
• Final Evaluation: Ask yourself: Does each example support my thesis? Is my message clear and compelling? Have I effectively addressed counter-arguments?

7 Exemplification Essay Writing Tips

Now, let's set the stage for writing an exemplification essay successfully with some key tips.

• Choose Thematic Precision: Before diving into examples, precisely define your theme. Don't cast too wide a net; focus on a specific aspect to ensure your examples align seamlessly with your chosen theme.
• Use Cohesive Chronology: Arrange your examples in a logical chronological order. This not only aids readability but also allows your readers to follow the evolution of your ideas seamlessly. Additionally, knowing how to use punctuation marks enhances the clarity of your writing.
• Spice Up Your Narrative Palette: Incorporate diverse examples to keep your readers engaged. Mix personal anecdotes with well-researched statistics or relevant case studies to add layers to your narrative.
• Connect the Dots: Weave strong transitions between examples. It's not just about presenting relevant examples; it's about guiding your readers through a coherent storyline. Ensure each example naturally flows into the next.
• Explore Fewer, Explore Deeper: Instead of bombarding your exemplification paper with countless examples, delve deeper into a select few. Provide detailed analysis and insights for a richer, more impactful narrative.
• Make Your Examples Relatable: Strive for a connection between your examples and your readers' experiences. The more relatable your examples, the more your audience can personally connect with your narrative.
• Employ Reflective Closure: Conclude your essay with a reflective note. Encourage your readers to think beyond the presented examples, pondering the broader implications of your theme. Leave them with a lingering thought that resonates beyond the final words.

Exemplification Essay Examples

In this section, we will unfold an outstanding example that will serve as a vivid illustration, making the intricacies of the topic much clearer for you.

Final Outlook

As we wrap up this exploration of an exemplification essay, it's worth reflecting on the tools we've gathered. Have these examples sparked a newfound confidence in turning your ideas into compelling narratives? Are you now equipped to choose examples that resonate with your readers, making your essay a captivating journey? Remember, the essence lies not just in presenting evidence but in crafting a story that engages, persuades, and lingers in the minds of your audience. You can always order essay from our expert team, who will guide your pen and transform your essays into stories that not only inform but resonate with the human experience.

Not Sure Where to Order Your Essay?

Don't miss the chance to improve your academic performance with EssayPro writing help and get the grades you deserve!

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

• Table of Contents
• Random Entry
• Chronological
• Editorial Information
• About the SEP
• Editorial Board
• How to Cite the SEP
• Special Characters
• Advanced Tools
• Support the SEP
• PDFs for SEP Friends
• Make a Donation
• SEPIA for Libraries
• Entry Contents

Bibliography

Academic tools.

• Friends PDF Preview
• Author and Citation Info
• Back to Top

Friendship, as understood here, is a distinctively personal relationship that is grounded in a concern on the part of each friend for the welfare of the other, for the other’s sake, and that involves some degree of intimacy. As such, friendship is undoubtedly central to our lives, in part because the special concern we have for our friends must have a place within a broader set of concerns, including moral concerns, and in part because our friends can help shape who we are as persons. Given this centrality, important questions arise concerning the justification of friendship and, in this context, whether it is permissible to “trade up” when someone new comes along, as well as concerning the possibility of reconciling the demands of friendship with the demands of morality in cases in which the two seem to conflict.

1.1 Mutual Caring

1.2 intimacy, 1.3 shared activity, 2.1 individual value, 2.2 social value, 3. friendship and moral theory, other internet resources, related entries, 1. the nature of friendship.

Friendship essentially involves a distinctive kind of concern for your friend, a concern which might reasonably be understood as a kind of love. Nonetheless, it is important not to misconstrue the sort of love friendship involves. Ancient Greek had three words that might reasonably be translated as love: agape , eros , and philia . Of these, agape through the Christian tradition has come to mean a kind of love that does not respond to the antecedent value of its object but instead is thought to create value in its object, as with the sort of love God has for us persons as well as, by extension, our love for God and our love for humankind in general. By contrast, eros and philia have come to be generally understood as responsive to the merits of their objects—to the beloved’s properties, such as his goodness or beauty. The difference is that eros is a kind of passionate desire for an object, typically sexual in nature, whereas ‘ philia ’ originally meant a kind of affectionate regard or friendly feeling towards not just one’s friends but also possibly towards family members, business partners, and one’s country at large (Liddell et al., 1940; Cooper, 1977a). Given this classification of kinds of love, philia seems to be that which is most clearly relevant to friendship (though just what philia amounts to needs to be clarified in more detail).

For this reason, love and friendship often get lumped together as a single topic; nonetheless, there are significant differences between them. As understood here, love is an evaluative attitude directed at particular persons as such, an attitude which we might take towards someone whether or not that love is reciprocated and whether or not we have an established relationship with her. [ 1 ] Friendship, by contrast, is essentially a kind of relationship grounded in a particular kind of special concern each has for the other as the person she is; and whereas we must make conceptual room for the idea of unrequited love, unrequited friendship is senseless. Consequently, accounts of friendship tend to understand it not merely as a case of reciprocal love of some form (together with mutual acknowledgment of this love), but as essentially involving significant interactions between the friends—as being in this sense a certain kind of relationship.

Nonetheless, questions can be raised about precisely how to distinguish romantic relationships, grounded in eros , from relationships of friendship, grounded in philia , insofar as each involves significant interactions between the involved parties that stem from a kind of reciprocal love that is responsive to merit. Clearly the two differ insofar as romantic love normally has a kind of sexual involvement that friendship lacks; yet, as Thomas (1989) asks, is that enough to explain the real differences between them? Badhwar (2003, 65–66) seems to think so, claiming that the sexual involvement enters into romantic love in part through a passion and yearning for physical union, whereas friendship involves instead a desire for a more psychological identification. Yet it is not clear exactly how to understand this: precisely what kind of “psychological identification” or intimacy is characteristic of friendship? (For further discussion, see Section 1.2 .)

In philosophical discussions of friendship, it is common to follow Aristotle ( Nicomachean Ethics , Book VIII) in distinguishing three kinds of friendship: friendships of pleasure, of utility, and of virtue. Although it is a bit unclear how to understand these distinctions, the basic idea seems to be that pleasure, utility, and virtue are the reasons we have in these various kinds of relationships for loving our friend. That is, I may love my friend because of the pleasure I get out of her, or because of the ways in which she is useful to me, or because I find her to have a virtuous character. Given the involvement of love in each case, all three kinds of friendship seem to involve a concern for your friend for his sake and not for your own.

There is an apparent tension here between the idea that friendship essentially involves being concerned for your friend for his sake and the idea of pleasure and utility friendships: how can you be concerned for him for his sake if you do that only because of the pleasure or utility you get out of it? If you benefit your friend because, ultimately, of the benefits you receive, it would seem that you do not properly love your friend for his sake, and so your relationship is not fully one of friendship after all. So it looks like pleasure and utility friendships are at best deficient modes of friendship; by contrast, virtue friendships, because they are motivated by the excellences of your friend’s character, are genuine, non-deficient friendships. For this reason, most contemporary accounts, by focusing their attention on the non-deficient forms of friendship, ignore pleasure and utility friendships. [ 2 ]

As mentioned in the first paragraph of this section, philia seems to be the kind of concern for other persons that is most relevant to friendship, and the word, ‘ philia ,’ sometimes gets translated as friendship; yet philia is in some ways importantly different from what we ordinarily think of as friendship. Thus , ‘ philia ’ extends not just to friends but also to family members, business associates, and one’s country at large. Contemporary accounts of friendship differ on whether family members, in particular one’s children before they become adults, can be friends. Most philosophers think not, understanding friendship to be essentially a relationship among equals; yet some philosophers (such as Friedman 1989; Rorty 1986/1993; Badhwar 1987) explicitly intend their accounts of friendship to include parent-child relationships, perhaps through the influence of the historical notion of philia . Nonetheless, there do seem to be significant differences between, on the one hand, parental love and the relationships it generates and, on the other hand, the love of one’s friends and the relationships it generates; the focus here will be on friendship more narrowly construed.

In philosophical accounts of friendship, several themes recur consistently, although various accounts differ in precisely how they spell these out. These themes are: mutual caring (or love), intimacy, and shared activity; these will be considered in turn.

A necessary condition of friendship, according to just about every view (Telfer 1970–71; Annas 1988, 1977; Annis 1987; Badhwar 1987; Millgram 1987; Sherman 1987; Thomas 1987, 1989, 1993; Friedman 1993, 1989; Whiting 1991; Hoffman 1997; Cocking & Kennett 1998; and White 1999a, 1999b, 2001) is that the friends each care about the other, and do so for her sake; in effect, this is to say that the friends must each love the other. Although many accounts of friendship do not analyze such mutual caring any further, among those that do there is considerable variability as to how we should understand the kind of caring involved in friendship. Nonetheless, there is widespread agreement that caring about someone for his sake involves both sympathy and action on the friend’s behalf. That is, friends must be moved by what happens to their friends to feel the appropriate emotions: joy in their friends’ successes, frustration and disappointment in their friends’ failures (as opposed to disappointment in the friends themselves), etc. Moreover, in part as an expression of their caring for each other, friends must normally be disposed to promote the other’s good for her sake and not out of any ulterior motive. (However, see Velleman 1999 for a dissenting view.)

To care about something is generally to find it worthwhile or valuable in some way; caring about one’s friend is no exception. A central difference among the various accounts of mutual caring is the way in which these accounts understand the kind of evaluation implicit therein. Most accounts understand that evaluation to be a matter of appraisal: we care about our friends at least in part because of the good qualities of their characters that we discover them to have (Annas 1977; Sherman 1987; Whiting 1991); this is in line with the understanding of love as philia or eros given in the first paragraph of Section 1 above. For this reason, many authors argue that to be friends with bad people reveals a potentially morally condemnable evaluative defect (see, e.g., Isserow 2018). Other accounts, however, understand caring as in part a matter of bestowing value on your beloved: in caring about a friend, we thereby project a kind of intrinsic value onto him; this is in line with the understanding of love as agape given above.

Friedman (1989, 6) argues for bestowal, saying that if we were to base our friendship on positive appraisals of our friend’s excellences, “to that extent our commitment to that person is subordinate to our commitment to the relevant [evaluative] standards and is not intrinsically a commitment to that person.” However, this is too quick, for to appeal to an appraisal of the good qualities of your friend’s character in order to justify your friendship is not on its own to subordinate your friendship to that appraisal. Rather, through the friendship, and through changes in your friend over time, you may come to change your evaluative outlook, thereby in effect subordinating your commitment to certain values to your commitment to your friend. Of course, within friendship the influence need not go only one direction: friends influence each other’s conceptions of value and how to live. Indeed, that friends have a reciprocal effect on each other is a part of the concern for equality many find essential to friendship, and it is central to the discussion of intimacy in Section 1.2 .

(For more on the notion of caring about another for her sake and the variety of philosophical accounts of it, see the entry on love .)

The relationship of friendship differs from other interpersonal relationships, even those characterized by mutual caring, such as relationships among colleagues: friendships are, intuitively, “deeper,” more intimate relationships. The question facing any philosophical account is how that characteristic intimacy of friendship is to be understood.

On this point, there is considerable variation in the literature—so much that it raises the question whether differing accounts aim at elucidating the same object. For it seems as though when the analysis of intimacy is relatively weak, the aim is to elucidate what might be called “acquaintance friendships”; as the analysis of intimacy gets stronger, the aim seems to tend towards closer friendships and even to a kind of ideal of maximally close friendship. It might be asked whether one or another of these types of friendship ought to take priority in the analysis, such that, for example, cases of close friendship can be understood to be an enhanced version of acquaintance friendship, or whether acquaintance friendship should be understood as being deficient in various ways relative to ideal friendship. Nonetheless, in what follows, views will be presented roughly in order from weaker to stronger accounts of intimacy.

To begin, Thomas (1987; 1989; 1993; 2013) claims that we should understand what is here called the intimacy of friendship in terms of mutual self-disclosure: I tell my friends things about myself that I would not dream of telling others, and I expect them to make me privy to intimate details of their lives. The point of such mutual self-disclosure, Thomas argues, is to create the “bond of trust” essential to friendship, for through such self-disclosure we simultaneously make ourselves vulnerable to each other and acknowledge the goodwill the other has for us. Such a bond of trust is what institutes the kind of intimacy characteristic of friendship. (Similar ideas can be found in Annis 1987.)

Cocking & Kennett (1998) caricature this as “the secrets view,” arguing:

It is not the sharing of private information nor even of very personal information, as such, that contributes to the bonds of trust and intimacy between companion friends. At best it is the sharing of what friends care about that is relevant here. [518]

Their point is that the secrets view underestimates the kind of trust at issue in friendship, conceiving of it largely as a matter of discretion. Given the way friendship essentially involves each caring about the other’s good for the other’s sake and so acting on behalf of the other’s good, entering into and sustaining a relationship of friendship will normally involve considerable trust in your friend’s goodwill towards you generally, and not just concerning your secrets. Moreover, friendship will normally involve trust in your friend’s judgment concerning what is in your best interests, for when your friend sees you harming yourself, she ought, other things being equal, to intervene, and through the friendship you can come to rely on her to do so. (See also Alfano, 2016, who emphasizes not just trust but trustworthiness to make similar points.)

Such enhanced trust can lead to “shared interests or enthusiasms or views … [or] a similar style of mind or way of thinking which makes for a high degree of empathy” (Telfer 1970–71, 227). Telfer finds such shared interests central to the “sense of a bond” friends have, an idea similar to the “solidarity”—the sharing of values and a sense of what’s important—that White (2001) advocates as central to friendship. For trusting my friend’s assessments of my good in this way seemingly involves trusting not only that she understands who I am and that I find certain things valuable and important in life but also and centrally that she understands the value of these things that are so meaningful to me. That in turn seems to be grounded in the empathy we have for each other—the shared sense of what’s important. So Telfer and White, in appealing to such shared sense of value, are offering a somewhat richer sense of the sort of intimacy essential to friendship than Thomas and Annis.

An important question to ask, however, is what precisely is meant by the “sharing” of a sense of value. Once again there are weaker and stronger versions. On the weak side, a sense of value is shared in the sense that a coincidence of interests and values is a necessary condition of developing and sustaining a friendship; when that happy coincidence dissipates, so too does the friendship. It is possible to read Annas’s summary of Aristotle’s view of friendship this way (1988, 1):

A friend, then, is one who (1) wishes and does good (or apparently good) things to a friend, for the friend’s sake, (2) wishes the friend to exist and live, for his own sake, (3) spends time with his friend, (4) makes the same choices as his friend and (5) finds the same things pleasant and painful as his friend.

(4) and (5) are the important claims for present purposes: making the same choices as your friend, if done consistently, depends on having a similar outlook on what reasons there are so to choose, and this point is reinforced in (5) given Aristotle’s understanding of pleasure and pain as evaluative and so as revealing what is (apparently) good and bad. The message might be that merely having coincidence in evaluative outlook is enough to satisfy (4) and (5).

Of course, Aristotle (and Annas) would reject this reading: friends do not merely have such similarities antecedent to their friendship as a necessary condition of friendship. Rather, friends can influence and shape each other’s evaluative outlook, so that the sharing of a sense of value is reinforced through the dynamics of their relationship. One way to make sense of this is through the Aristotelian idea that friends function as a kind of mirror of each other: insofar as friendship rests on similarity of character, and insofar as I can have only imperfect direct knowledge about my own character, I can best come to know myself—both the strengths and weaknesses of my character—by knowing a friend who reflects my qualities of character. Minor differences between friends, as when my friend on occasion makes a choice I would not have made, can lead me to reflect on whether this difference reveals a flaw in my own character that might need to be fixed, thereby reinforcing the similarity of my and my friend’s evaluative outlooks. On this reading of the mirroring view, my friend plays an entirely passive role: just by being himself, he enables me to come to understand my own character better (cf. Badhwar 2003). [ 3 ]

Cocking & Kennett (1998) argue against such a mirroring view in two ways. First, they claim that this view places too much emphasis on similarity as motivating and sustaining the friendship. Friends can be very different from each other, and although within a friendship there is a tendency for the friends to become more and more alike, this should be understood as an effect of friendship, not something constitutive of it. Second, they argue that the appeal to the friend’s role as a mirror to explain the increasing similarity involves assigning too much passivity to the friend. Our friends, they argue, play a more active role in shaping us, and the mirroring view fails to acknowledge this. (Cocking & Kennett’s views will be discussed further below. Lynch (2005) provides further criticisms of the mirroring view, arguing that the differences between friends can be central and important to their friendship.)

In an interesting twist on standard accounts of the sense in which (according to Aristotle, at least) a friend is a mirror, Millgram (1987) claims that in mirroring my friend I am causally responsible for my friend coming to have and sustain the virtues he has. Consequently, I am in a sense my friend’s “procreator,” and I therefore find myself actualized in my friend. For this reason, Millgram claims, I come to love my friend in the same way I love myself, and this explains (a) Aristotle’s otherwise puzzling claim that a friend is “another self,” (b) why it is that friends are not fungible, given my role as procreator only of this particular person, and (c) why friendships of pleasure and utility, which do not involve such procreation, fail to be genuine friendships. (For more on the problem of fungibility, see Section 2.1 .) However, in offering this account, Millgram may seem to confound my being causally necessary for my friend’s virtues with my being responsible for those virtues—to confound my passive role as a mirror with that of a “procreator,” a seemingly active role. Millgram’s understanding of mirroring does not, therefore, escape Cocking & Kennett’s criticism of mirroring views as assigning too much passivity to the friend as mirror.

Friedman (1989) offers another way to make sense of the influence my friend has on my sense of value by appealing to the notion of bestowal. According to Friedman, the intimacy of friendship takes the form of a commitment friends have to each other as unique persons, a commitment in which the

friend’s successes become occasions for joy; her judgments may provoke reflection or even deference; her behavior may encourage emulation; and the causes which she champions may inspire devotion …. One’s behavior toward the friend takes its appropriateness, at least in part, from her goals and aspirations, her needs, her character—all of which one feels prima facie invited to acknowledge as worthwhile just because they are hers. [4]

As noted in the 3rd paragraph of Section 1.1 , Friedman thinks my commitment to my friend cannot be grounded in appraisals of her, and so my acknowledgment of the worth of her goals, etc., is a matter of my bestowing value on these: her ends become valuable to me, and so suitable for motivating my actions, “just because they are hers.” That is, such a commitment involves taking my friend seriously, where this means something like finding her values, interests, reasons, etc. provide me with pro tanto reasons for me to value and think similarly. [ 4 ] In this way, the dynamics of the friendship relation involves friends mutually influencing each other’s sense of value, which thereby comes to be shared in a way that underwrites significant intimacy.

In part, Friedman’s point is that sharing an evaluative perspective in the way that constitutes the intimacy of friendship involves coming to adopt her values as parts of my own sense of value. Whiting (1991) argues that such an approach fails properly to make sense of the idea that I love my friend for her sake. For to require that my friend’s values be my own is to blur the distinction between valuing these things for her sake and valuing them for my own. Moreover, Whiting (1986) argues, to understand my concern for her for her sake in terms of my concern for things for my sake raises the question of how to understand this latter concern. However, Whiting thinks the latter is at least as unclear as the former, as is revealed when we think about the long-term and my connection and responsibility to my “future selves.” The solution, she claims, is to understand the value of my ends (or yours) to be independent of the fact that they are mine (or yours): these ends are intrinsically valuable, and that’s why I should care about them, no matter whose ends they are. Consequently, the reason I have to care for myself, including my future selves, for my sake is the same as the reason I have to care about my friend for her sake: because I recognize the intrinsic value of the (excellent) character she or I have (Whiting 1991, 10; for a similar view, see Keller 2000). Whiting therefore advocates what she calls an “impersonal” conception of friendship: There are potentially many people exhibiting (what I would consider to be) excellences of character, and these are my impersonal friends insofar as they are all “equally worthy of my concern”; what explains but does not justify my “differential and apparently personal concern for only some … [is] largely a function of historical and psychological accident” (1991, 23).

It should be clear that Whiting does not merely claim that friends share values only in that these values happen to coincide; if that were the case, her conception of friendship would be vulnerable to the charge that the friends really are not concerned for each other but merely for the intrinsically valuable properties that each exemplifies. Rather, Whiting thinks that part of what makes my concern for my friend be for her sake is my being committed to remind her of what’s really valuable in life and to foster within her a commitment to these values so as to prevent her from going astray. Such a commitment on my part is clearly a commitment to her, and a relationship characterized by such a commitment on both sides is one that consistently and non-accidentally reinforces the sharing of these values.

Brink (1999) criticizes Whiting’s account of friendship as too impersonal because it fails to understand the relationship of friendship itself to be intrinsically valuable. (For similar criticisms, see Jeske 1997.) In part, the complaint is the same as that which Friedman (1989) offered against any conception of friendship that bases that friendship on appraisals of the friend’s properties (cf. the 3rd paragraph of Section 1.1 above): such a conception of friendship subordinates our concern for the friend to our concern for the values, thereby neglecting what makes friendship a distinctively personal relationship. Given Whiting’s understanding of the sense in which friends share values in terms of their appeal to the intrinsic and impersonal worth of those values, it seems that she cannot make much of the rebuttal to Friedman offered above: that I can subordinate my concern for certain values to my concern for my friend, thereby changing my values in part out of concern for my friend. Nonetheless, Brink’s criticism goes deeper:

Unless our account of love and friendship attaches intrinsic significance to the historical relationship between friends, it seems unable to justify concern for the friend qua friend. [1999, 270]

It is only in terms of the significance of the historical relationship, Brink argues, that we can make sense of the reasons for friendship and for the concern and activity friendship demands as being agent-relative (and so in this way personal) rather than agent-neutral (or impersonal, as for Whiting). [ 5 ]

Cocking & Kennett (1998), in what might be a development of Rorty (1986/1993), offer an account of close friendship in part in terms of the friends playing a more active role in transforming each other’s evaluative outlook: in friendship, they claim, we are “receptive” to having our friends “direct” and “interpret” us and thereby change our interests. To be directed by your friend is to allow her interests, values, etc. to shape your own; thus, your friend may suggest that you go to the opera together, and you may agree to go, even though you have no antecedent interest in the opera. Through his interest, enthusiasm, and suggestion (“Didn’t you just love the concluding duet of Act III?”), you may be moved directly by him to acquire an interest in opera only because he’s your friend. To be interpreted by your friend is to allow your understanding of yourself, in particular of your strengths and weaknesses, to be shaped by your friend’s interpretations of you. Thus, your friend may admire your tenacity (a trait you did not realize you had), or be amused by your excessive concern for fairness, and you may come as a result to develop a new understanding of yourself, and potentially change yourself, in direct response to his interpretation of you. Hence, Cocking & Kennett claim, “the self my friend sees is, at least in part, a product of the friendship” (505). (Nehamas 2010 offers a similar account of the importance of the interpretation of one’s friends in determining who one is, though Nehamas emphasizes in a way that Cocking & Kennett do not that your interpretation of your friend can reveal possible valuable ways to be that you yourself “could never have even imagined beforehand” (287).)

It is a bit unclear what your role is in being thus directed and interpreted by your friend. Is it a matter of merely passively accepting the direction and interpretation? This is suggested by Cocking & Kennett’s understanding of friendship in terms of a  receptivity to being drawn by your friend and by their apparent understanding of this receptivity in dispositional terms. Yet this would seem to be a matter of ceding your autonomy to your friend, and that is surely not what they intend. Rather, it seems, we are at least selective in the ways in which we allow our friends to direct and interpret us, and we can resist other directions and interpretations. However, this raises the question of why we allow any such direction and interpretation. One answer would be because we recognize the independent value of the interests of our friends, or that we recognize the truth of their interpretations of us. But this would not explain the role of friendship in such direction and interpretation, for we might just as easily accept such direction and interpretation from a mentor or possibly even a stranger. This shortcoming might push us to understanding our receptivity to direction and interpretation not in dispositional terms but rather in normative terms: other things being equal, we ought to accept direction and interpretation from our friends precisely because they are our friends. And this might push us to a still stronger conception of intimacy, of the sharing of values, in terms of which we can understand why friendship grounds these norms.

Such a stronger conception of intimacy is provided in Sherman’s interpretation of Aristotle’s account of friends as sharing a life together (Sherman 1987; see also Moore & Frederick 2017, which argues that friends must share a life together partly through the mutual acknowledgment of their shared activity in the form of a joint narrative that interprets these activities as meaningful). According to Sherman’s Aristotle, an important component of friendship is that friends identify with each other in the sense that they exhibit a “singleness of mind.” This includes, first, a kind of sympathy, whereby I feel on my friend’s behalf the same emotions he does. Unlike similar accounts, Sherman explicitly includes pride and shame as emotions I sympathetically feel on behalf of my friend—a significant addition because of the role pride and shame have in constituting our sense of ourselves and even our identities (Taylor 1985). In part for this reason, Sherman claims that “through the sense of belonging and attachment” we attain because of such sympathetic pride and shame, “we identify with and share their [our friends’] good” (600). [ 6 ]

Second, and more important, Sherman’s Aristotle understands the singleness of mind that friends have in terms of shared processes of deliberation. Thus, as she summarizes a passage in Aristotle (1170b11–12):

character friends live together, not in the way animals do, by sharing the same pasture, but “by sharing in argument and thought.” [598]

The point is that the friends “share” a conception of values not merely in that there is significant overlap between the values of the one friend and those of the other, and not merely in that this overlap is maintained through the influence that the friends have on each other. Rather, the values are shared in the sense that they are most fundamentally their values, at which they jointly arrive by deliberating together.

[Friends have] the project of a shared conception of eudaimonia [i.e., of how best to live]. Through mutual decisions about specific practical matters, friends begin to express that shared commitment …. Any happiness or disappointment that follows from these actions belongs to both persons, for the decision to so act was joint and the responsibility is thus shared. [598]

The intent of this account, in which what gets shared is, we might say, an identity that the friends have in common, is not to be descriptively accurate of particular friendships; it is rather to provide a kind of ideal that actual friendships at best only approximate. Such a strong notion of sharing is reminiscent of the union view of (primarily erotic) love, according to which love consists in the formation of some significant kind of union, a “we” (see the entry on love , the section on love as union ). Like the union view of love, this account of friendship raises worries about autonomy. Thus, it seems as though Sherman’s Aristotle does away with any clear distinction between the interests and even agency of the two friends, thereby undermining the kind of independence and freedom of self-development that characterizes autonomy. If autonomy is a part of the individual’s good, then Sherman’s Aristotle might be forced to conclude that friendship is to this extent bad; the conclusion might be, therefore, that we ought to reject this strong conception of the intimacy of friendship.

It is unclear from Sherman’s interpretation of Aristotle whether there are principled reasons to limit the extent to which we share our identities with our friends; perhaps an appeal to something like Friedman’s federation model (1998) can help resolve these difficulties. Friedman’s idea is that we should understand romantic love (but the idea could also be applied to friendship) not in terms of the union of the two individuals, in which their identities get subsumed by that union, but rather in terms of the federation of the individuals—the creation of a third entity that presupposes some degree of independence of the individuals that make it up. Even so, much would need to be done to spell out this view satisfactorily. (For more on Friedman’s account, see the entry on love , the section on love as union .)

In each of these accounts of the kind of intimacy and commitment that are characteristic of friendship, we might ask about the conditions under which friendship can properly be dissolved. Thus, insofar as friendship involves some such commitment, we cannot just give up on our friends for no reason at all; nor, it seems, should our commitment be unconditional, binding on us come what may. Understanding more clearly when it is proper to break off a friendship, or allow it to lapse, may well shed light on the kind of commitment and intimacy that is characteristic of friendship; nonetheless, this issue gets scant attention in the literature.

A final common thread in philosophical accounts of friendship is shared activity. The background intuition is this: never to share activity with someone and in this way to interact with him is not to have the kind of relationship with him that could be called friendship, even if you each care for the other for his sake. Rather, friends engage in joint pursuits, in part motivated by the friendship itself. These joint pursuits can include not only such things as making something together, playing together, and talking together, but also pursuits that essentially involve shared experiences, such as going to the opera together. Yet for these pursuits to be properly shared in the relevant sense of “share,” they cannot involve activities motivated simply by self interest: by, for example, the thought that I’ll help you build your fence today if you later help me paint my house. Rather, the activity must be pursued in part for the purpose of doing it together with my friend, and this is the point of saying that the shared activity must be motivated, at least in part, by the friendship itself.

This raises the following questions: in what sense can such activity be said to be “shared,” and what is it about friendship that makes shared activity so central to it? The common answer to this second question (which helps pin down an answer to the first) is that shared activity is important because friends normally have shared interests as a part of the intimacy that is characteristic of friendship as such, and the “shared” pursuit of such shared interests is therefore an important part of friendship. Consequently, the account of shared activity within a particular theory ought to depend at least in part on that theory’s understanding of the kind of intimacy relevant to friendship. And this generally seems to be the case: for example, Thomas (1987, 1989, 1993, 2013), who argues for a weak conception of intimacy in terms of mutual self-disclosure, has little place for shared activity in his account of friendship, whereas Sherman (1987), who argues for a strong conception of intimacy in terms of shared values, deliberation, and thought, provides within friendship a central place not just to isolated shared activities but, more significantly, to a shared life.

Nonetheless, within the literature on friendship the notion of shared or joint activity is largely taken for granted: not much thought has been given to articulating clearly the sense in which friends share their activity. This is surprising and unfortunate, especially insofar as the understanding of the sense in which such activities are “shared” is closely related to the understanding of intimacy that is so central to any account of friendship; indeed, a clear account of the sort of shared activity characteristic of friendship may in turn shed light on the sort of intimacy it involves. This means in part that a particular theory of friendship might be criticized in terms of the way in which its account of the intimacy of friendship yields a poor account of the sense in which activity is shared. For example, one might think that we must distinguish between activity we engage in together in part out of my concern for someone I love, and activity we share insofar as we engage in it at least partly for the sake of sharing it; only the latter, it might be argued, is the sort of shared activity constitutive of the relationship of friendship as opposed to that constitutive merely of my concern for him (see Nozick 1989). Consequently, according to this line of thought, any account of the intimacy of friendship that fails to understand the sharing of interests in such a way as to make sense of this distinction ought to be rejected.

Helm (2008) develops an account of shared activity and shared valuing at least partly with an eye to understanding friendship. He argues that the sense in which friends share activity is not the sort of shared intention and plural subjecthood discussed in literature on shared intention within social philosophy (on which, see Tuomela 1995, 2007; Gilbert 1996, 2000, 2006; Searle 1990; and Bratman 1999), for such sharing of intentions does not involve the requisite intimacy of friendship. Rather, the intimacy of friendship should be understood partly in terms of the friends forming a “plural agent”: a group of people who have joint cares—a joint evaluative perspective—which he analyzes primarily in terms of a pattern of interpersonally connected emotions, desires, judgments, and (shared) actions. Friendships emerge, Helm claims, when the friends form a plural agent that cares positively about their relationship, and the variety of kinds of friendships there can be, including friendships of pleasure, utility, and virtue, are to be understood in terms of the particular way in which they jointly understand their relationship to be something they care about—as tennis buddies or as life partners, for example.

2. Value and Justification of Friendship

Friendship clearly plays an important role in our lives; to a large extent, the various accounts of friendship aim at identifying and clarifying that role. In this context, it is important to understand not only why friendship can be valuable, but also what justifies particular friendships.

One way to construe the question of the value of friendship is in terms of the individual considering whether to be (or continue to be) engaged in a friendship: why should I invest considerable time, energy, and resources in a friend rather than in myself? What makes friendship worthwhile for me, and so how ought I to evaluate whether particular friendships I have are good friendships or not?

One sort of answer is that friendship is instrumentally good. Thus, Telfer (1970–71) claims that friendship is “ life enhancing ” in that it makes us “feel more alive”—it enhances our activities by intensifying our absorption in them and hence the pleasure we get out of them (239–40). Moreover, she claims, friendship is pleasant in itself as well as useful to the friends. Annis (1987) adds that it helps promote self-esteem, which is good both instrumentally and for its own sake.

Yet friendship is not merely instrumentally valuable, as is hinted at by Annis’ claim that “our lives would be significantly less full given the universal demise of friendship” (1987, 351). Cooper (1977b), interpreting Aristotle, provides two arguments for why this might be so. First, Cooper’s Aristotle claims, living well requires that one know the goodness of one’s own life; however, given the perpetual possibility of self-deception, one is able accurately to evaluate one’s own life only through friendship, in which one’s friend acts as a kind of mirror of one’s self. Hence, a flourishing life is possible only through the epistemic access friendship provides. Second, Cooper’s Aristotle claims that the sort of shared activity characteristic of friendship is essential to one’s being able to engage in the sort of activities characteristic of living well “continuously” and “with pleasure and interest” (310). Such activities include moral and intellectual activities, activities in which it is often difficult to sustain interest without being tempted to act otherwise. Friendship, and the shared values and shared activities it essentially involves, is needed to reinforce our intellectual and practical understanding of such activities as worthwhile in spite of their difficulty and the ever present possibility that our interest in pursuing them will flag. Consequently, Cooper concludes, the shared activity of friendship is partly constitutive of human flourishing. Similarly, Biss (2019) argues along Kantian lines that friendship and the sort of trust friendship involves, are a central and necessary part of the pursuit of moral self-perfection.

So far these are attempts to understand the value of friendship to the individual in terms of the way friendship contributes, instrumentally or constitutively, to something else that is valuable to the individual. Yet one might also think that friendship is valuable for its own sake. Schoeman (1985), partly in response to the individualism of other accounts of the value of friendship, claims that in friendship the friends “become a unique community with a being and value of its own” (280): the intimacy of friendship results in “a way of being and acting in virtue of being united with another” (281). Although this claim has intuitive appeal, Schoeman does not clearly explain what the value of that “unique community” is or why it should have that value. Indeed, we ought to expect that fleshing out this claim would involve a substantive proposal concerning the nature of that community and how it can have a separate (federated?—cf. Friedman 1998) existence and value. Once again, the literature on shared intention and plural subjecthood is relevant here; see, for example, Gilbert 1989, 1996, 2000; Tuomela 1984, 1995; Searle 1990; and Bratman 1999.

A question closely related to this question of the value of friendship is that of what justifies my being friends with this person rather than with someone else or no one at all. To a certain extent, answers to the question of the value of friendship might seem to provide answers to the question of the justification of friendship. After all, if the value of friendship in general lies in the way it contributes (either instrumentally or constitutively) to a flourishing life for me, then it might seem that I can justify particular friendships in light of the extent to which they contribute to my flourishing. Nonetheless, this seems unacceptable because it suggests—what is surely false—that friends are fungible . (To be fungible is to be replaceable by a relevantly similar object without any loss of value.) That is, if my friend has certain properties (including, perhaps, relational properties) in virtue of which I am justified in having her as my friend (because it is in virtue of those properties that she contributes to my flourishing), then on this view I would be equally justified in being friends with anyone else having relevantly similar properties, and so I would have no reason not to replace my current friend with someone else of this sort. Indeed, it might even be that I ought to “trade up” when someone other than my current friend exhibits the relevant friendship-justifying properties to a greater degree than my friend does. This is surely objectionable as an understanding of friendship.

In solving this problem of fungibility, philosophers have typically focused on features of the historical relationship of friendship (cf. Brink 1999, quoted above). One approach might be found in Sherman’s 1987 union account of friendship discussed above (this type of view might be suggested by the account of the value of friendship in Schoeman 1985). If my friend and I form a kind of union in virtue of our having a shared conception of how to live that is forged and maintained through a particular history of interaction and sharing of our lives, and if my sense of my values and identity therefore depends on these being most fundamentally our values and identity, then it is simply not possible to substitute another person for my friend without loss. For this other person could not possibly share the relevant properties of my friend, namely her historical relationship with me. However, the price of this solution to the problem of fungibility, as it arises both for friendship and for love, is the worry about autonomy raised towards the end of Section 1.2 above.

An alternative solution is to understand these historical, relational properties of my friend to be more directly relevant to the justification of our friendship. Thus, Whiting (1991) distinguishes the reasons we have for initiating a friendship (which are, she thinks, impersonal in a way that allows for fungibility) from the reasons we have for sustaining a friendship; the latter, she suggests, are to be found in the history of concern we have for each other. However, it is unclear how the historical-relational properties can provide any additional justification for friendship beyond that provided by thinking about the value of friendship in general, which does not solve the fungibility problem. For the mere fact that this is my friend does not seem to justify my continued friendship: when we imagine that my friend is going through a rough time so that he loses those virtues justifying my initial friendship with him, why shouldn’t I just dump him and strike up a new friendship with someone who has those virtues? It is not clear how the appeal to historical properties of my friend or our friendship can provide an answer.

In part the trouble here arises from tacit preconceptions concerning the nature of justification. If we attempt to justify continued friendship in terms of the friend’s being this particular person, with a particular historical relationship to me, then it seems like we are appealing to merely idiosyncratic and subjective properties, which might explain but cannot justify that friendship. This seems to imply that justification in general requires the appeal to the friend’s being a type of person, having general, objective properties that others might share; this leads to the problem of fungibility. Solving the problem, it might therefore seem, requires somehow overcoming this preconception concerning justification—a task which no one has attempted in the literature on friendship.

(For further discussion of this problem of fungibility as it arises in the context of love, as well as discussion of a related problem concerning whether the object (rather than the grounds) of love is a particular person or a type of person, see Section 6 of the entry on love .)

Another way to construe the question of the value of friendship is in more social terms: what is the good to society of having its members engaged in relationships of friendship? Telfer (1970–71, 238) answers that friendship promotes the general good “by providing a degree and kind of consideration for others’ welfare which cannot exist outside it.” Blum (1980) concurs, arguing that friendship is an important source of moral excellence precisely because it essentially involves acting for the sake of your friend, a kind of action that can have considerable moral worth. (For similar claims, see Annis 1987.)

Cocking & Kennett (2000) argue against this view that friendly acts per se are morally good, claiming that “I might be a perfectly good friend. I might just not be a perfectly moral one” (287). They support this conclusion, within their account of friendship as involving being directed and interpreted by one’s friend, by claiming that “I am just as likely to be directed by your interest in gambling at the casino as by your interest in ballet” (286). However, Cocking & Kennett seem to be insufficiently sensitive to the idea, which they accept (cf. 284), that friends care about promoting each other’s well-being. For if I am concerned with your well-being and find you to be about to embark on an immoral course of action, I ought not, contrary to what Cocking & Kennett suggest, blindly allow you to draw me into joining you; rather, I ought to try to stop you or at least get you to question whether you are doing the right thing—as a matter of my directing and interpreting you. In this context, Koltonski (2016) argues that one ought to ensure that one’s friend is properly engaging in moral deliberation, but then defer to one’s friend’s judgment about what to do, even when one disagrees with the moral conclusion, for such deference is a matter of properly respecting the friend’s moral agency.

These answers to the social value of friendship seem to apply equally well to love: insofar as love essentially involves both a concern for your beloved for his sake and, consequently, action on his behalf for his sake, love will exhibit the same social value. Friedman (1989), however, argues that friendship itself is socially valuable in a way that love is not. Understanding the intimacy of friendship in terms of the sharing of values, Friedman notes that friendship can involve the mutual support of, in particular, unconventional values, which can be an important stimulus to moral progress within a community. For “our commitments to particular persons are, in practice, necessary counterbalances to our commitments to abstract moral guidelines, and may, at times, take precedence over them” (6). Consequently, the institution of friendship is valuable not just to the individuals but also to the community as a whole. On the other hand, however, we might worry that friendship can have negative consequences for society as a whole. As Thomas (1999) and Lintott (2015) argue, we tend to privilege in our loves and friendships “people like us”, which can give rise to biases in favor of certain social identities like race, class, and sexual orientation that can perpetuate inequalities among these groups, reinforce epistemic injustices, and limit our moral development.

A growing body of research since the mid-1970s questions the relationship between the phenomenon of friendship and particular moral theories. Thus, many (Stocker 1976, 1981; Blum 1980, 1993; Wilcox 1987; Friedman 1989, 1993; Badhwar 1991; Cocking & Oakley 1995) have criticized consequentialist and deontological moral theories on the grounds that they are somehow incompatible with friendship and the kind of reasons and motives that friendship provides. Often, the appeal to friendship is intended to bypass traditional disputes among major types of moral theories (consequentialism, deontology, and virtue ethics), and so the “friendship critique” may seem especially important and interesting. [ 7 ]

At the root of these questions concerning the relationship between friendship and morality is the idea that friendship involves special duties : duties for specific people that arise out of the relationship of friendship. Thus, it seems that we have obligations to aid and support our friends that go well beyond those we have to help strangers because they are our friends, much like we parents have special duties to aid and support our children because they are our children. Indeed, Annis (1987) suggests, such duties “are constitutive of the relationship” of friendship (352; but see Bernstein (2007) for an argument that friendship does not involve any requirement of partiality). Given this, the question arises as to what the relationship is between such special duties of friendship and other duties, in particular moral duties: can our obligations to our friends sometimes trump our moral duties, or must we always subordinate our personal relationships to morality in order to be properly impartial (as, it might be thought, morality demands)?

One concern in this neighborhood, articulated by Stocker (1976), is that the phenomenon of friendship reveals that consequentialist and deontological moral theories, by offering accounts of what it is right to do irrespective of the motives we have, promote a kind of “ moral schizophrenia ”: a split between our moral reasons on the one hand and our motives on the other. Such moral schizophrenia, Stocker argues, prevents us in general from harmonizing our moral reasons and our motives, and it does so in a way that destroys the very possibility of our having and sustaining friendships with others. Given the manifest value of friendship in our lives, this is clearly a serious problem with these moral theories.

What is it about friendship that generates these problems? One concern arises out of the teleological conception of action , implicit in consequentialism, according to which actions are understood in terms of their ends or purposes. The trouble is, Stocker (1981) argues, the characteristic actions of friendship cannot be understood in this way. To be a friend is at least sometimes to be motivated to act out of a concern for your friend as this individual (cf. Section 1.1 ). Although actions done out of friendship may have ends, what characterizes these as “friendly acts,” as we might call them, is not that they are done for any particular purpose:

If acting out of friendship is composed of purposes, dispositions to have purposes, and the like, where these are purposes properly so-called, and thus not essentially described by the phrase ‘out of friendship’, there seems … no guarantee that the person cares about and likes, has friendship for, the ‘friend’. [Stocker 1981, 756–57]

That is, actions done out of friendship are essentially actions motivated by a special sort of concern—a concern for this particular person—which is in part a matter of having settled habits of response to the friend. This, Stocker concludes, is a kind of motivation for action that a teleological conception of action cannot countenance, resulting in moral schizophrenia. (Jeske (2008) argues for a somewhat different conclusion: that in order to heal this apparent split between impartial moral obligations and the partial obligations of friendship, we must abandon the distinction between moral and nonmoral obligations.)

Stocker (1976) raises another, more general concern for consequentialism and deontology arising out of a conception of friendship. Thus, although act consequentialists —those who justify each particular act by appeal to the goodness of the consequences of that act, impersonally conceived (see the entry on consequentialism )—could justify friendly acts, they “cannot embody their reason in their motive” (1976, 70), for to be motivated teleologically by the concern to maximize goodness is not to be motivated out of friendship. Consequently, either act consequentialists must exhibit moral schizophrenia, or, to avoid it, they must understand consequentialist reasons for action to be our motives. However, because such consequentialist reasons are impersonal, taking this latter tack would be to leave out the kind of reasons and motives that are central to friendship, thereby undermining the very institution of friendship. (Cf. the discussion of impersonal justification of friendship and the problem of fungibility in Section 2.1 .)

The same is true, Stocker argues, of rule consequentialism (the view that actions are right if they follow principles or rules that tend to result in the most good overall, impersonally conceived—see the entry on rule-consequentialism ) and on deontology (the view that actions are right just in case they are in accordance with certain rules or principles that are binding on all moral agents). For even if rule consequentialism and deontology can provide moral reasons for friendly actions in terms of the rule that one must benefit one’s friends, for example, such reasons would be impersonal, giving no special consideration to our particular friends at all. If we are to avoid moral schizophrenia and embody this reason in our motives for action, we could not, then, act out of friendship—out of a concern for our friends for their sakes. This means that any rule consequentialist or deontologist that avoids moral schizophrenia can act so as to benefit her friends, but such actions would be merely as if friendly, not genuinely friendly, and she could not therefore have and sustain genuine friendships. The only alternative is to split her moral reasons and her motives for friendly acts, thereby becoming schizophrenic. (For some discussion about whether such moral schizophrenia really is as bad as Stocker thinks, see Woodcock 2010. For concerns similar to Stocker’s about impartial moral theories and motivation for action arising out of a consideration of personal relationships like friendship, see Williams 1981.)

Blum (1980) (portions of which are reprinted with slight modifications in Blum 1993) and Friedman (1993), pick up on this contrast between the impartiality of consequentialism and deontology and the inherent partiality of friendship, and argue more directly for a rejection of such moral theories. Consequentialists and deontologists must think that relationships like friendship essentially involve a kind of special concern for the friend and that such relationships therefore demand that one’s actions exhibit a kind of partiality towards the friend. Consequently, they argue, these impartialist moral theories must understand friendship to be inherently biased and therefore not to be inherently moral. Rather, such moral theories can only claim that to care for another “in a fully morally appropriate manner” requires caring for him “simply as a human being, i.e., independent of any special connection or attachment one has with him” (Blum 1993, 206). It is this claim that Blum and Friedman deny: although such universalist concern surely has a place in moral theory, the value—indeed the moral value (cf. Section 2.2 )—of friendship cannot properly be appreciated except as involving a concern for another for his sake and as the particular person he is. Thus, they claim, insofar as consequentialism and deontology are unable to acknowledge the moral value of friendship, they cannot be adequate moral theories and ought to be rejected in favor of some alternative.

In reply, Railton (1984) distinguishes between subjective and objective consequentialism, arguing that this “friendship critique” of Stocker and Blum (as well as Friedman) succeeds only against subjective consequentialism. (See Mason (1998) for further elaborations of this argument, and see Sadler (2006) for an alternative response.) Subjective consequentialism is the view that whenever we face a choice of actions, we should both morally justify a particular course of action and be motivated to act accordingly directly by the relevant consequentialist principle (whether what that principle assesses are particular actions or rules for action). That is, in acting as one ought, one’s subjective motivations ought to come from those very moral reasons: because this action promotes the most good (or is in accordance with the rule that tends to promote the most good). Clearly, Stocker, Blum, and Friedman are right to think that subjective consequentialism cannot properly accommodate the motives of friendship.

By contrast, Railton argues, objective consequentialism denies that there is such a tight connection between the objective justification of a state of affairs in terms of its consequences and the agent’s motives in acting: the moral justification of a particular action is one thing (and to be undertaken in consequentialist terms), but the motives for that action may be entirely separate. This means that the objective consequentialist can properly acknowledge that sometimes the best states of affairs result not just from undertaking certain behaviors, but from undertaking them with certain motives, including motives that are essentially personal. In particular, Railton argues, the world would be a better place if each of us had dispositions to act so as to benefit our friends out of a concern for their good (and not the general good). So, on consequentialist grounds each of us has moral reasons to inculcate such a disposition to friendliness, and when the moment arrives that disposition will be engaged, so that we are motivated to act out of a concern for our friends rather than out of an impersonal, impartial concern for the greater good. [ 8 ] Moreover, there is no split between our moral reasons for action and our motives because such reasons may in some cases (such as that of a friendly act) require that in acting we act out of the appropriate sort of motive. So the friendship critique of Stocker, Blum, and Friedman fails. [ 9 ]

Badhwar (1991) thinks even Railton’s more sophisticated consequentialism ultimately fails to accommodate the phenomenon of friendship, and that the moral schizophrenia remains. For, she argues, a sophisticated consequentialist must both value the friend for the friend’s sake (in order to be a friend at all) and value the friend only so long as doing so is consistent with promoting the most good overall (in order to be a consequentialist).

As a non-schizophrenic, un-self-deceived consequentialist friend, however, she must put the two thoughts together. And the two thoughts are logically incompatible. To be consistent she must think, “As a consequentialist friend, I place special value on you so long, but only so long, as valuing you thus promotes the overall good.” … Her motivational structure, in other words, is instrumental, and so logically incompatible with the logical structure required for end friendship. [493]

Badhwar is here alluding to a case of Railton’s in which, through no fault of yours or your friend’s, the right action according to consequentialism is to sacrifice your friendship for the greater good. In such a case, the sophisticated consequentialist must in arriving at this conclusion “evaluate intrinsic goods [of friendship] and their virtues by reference to a standard external to them”—i.e., by reference to the overall good as this is conceived from an impersonal point of view (496). However, Badhwar argues, the value of friendship is something we can appreciate only from a personal point of view, so that the moral rightness of friendly actions must be assessed only by appeal to an essentially personal relationship in which we act for the sake of our friends and not for the sake of producing the most good in general and in indifference to this particular personal relationship. Therefore, sophisticated consequentialism, because of its impersonal nature, blinds us to the value of particular friendships and the moral reasons they provide for acting out of friendship, all of which can be properly appreciated only from the personal point of view. In so doing, sophisticated consequentialism undermines what is distinctive about friendship as such. The trouble once again is a split between consequentialist reasons and friendly motivations: a kind of moral schizophrenia.

At this point it might seem that the proper consequentialist reply to this line of criticism is to refuse to accept the claim that a moral justification of the value of friendship and friendly actions must be personal: the good of friendship and the good that friendly actions promote, a consequentialist should say, are things we must be able to understand in impersonal terms or they would not enter into a properly moral justification of the rightness of action. Because sophisticated consequentialists agree that motivation out of friendship must be personal, they must reject the idea that the ultimate moral reasons for acting in these cases are your motives, thereby rejecting the relatively weak motivational internalism that is implicit in the friendship critique (for weak motivational internalism, see the entry on moral cognitivism vs. non-cognitivism , and in particular the section on motivational internalism and the action-guiding character of moral judgements ). Indeed, this seems to be Railton’s strategy in articulating his objective consequentialism: to be a good person is to act in the morally right ways (justified by consequentialism) and so to have, on balance, motivations that tend to produce right action, even though in certain cases (including those of friendship) these motivations need not—indeed cannot—have the consequentialist justification in view. (For further elaborations of this strategy in direct response to Badhwar 1991, see Conee 2001 and Card 2004; for a defense of Railton in opposition to Card’s elaboration of sophisticated consequentialism, see Tedesco 2006.)

This means that the debate at issue in the friendship critique of consequentialism needs to be carried on in part at the level of a discussion of the nature of motivation and the connection between moral reasons and motives. Indeed, such a discussion has implications for how we should construe the sort of mutual caring that is central to friendship. For the sophisticated consequentialist would presumably try to spell out that mutual caring in terms of friendly dispositions (motives divorced from consequentialist reasons), an attempt which advocates of the friendship critique would say involves insufficient attention to the particular person one cares about, insofar as the caring would not be justified by who she is (motives informed by personal reasons).

The discussion of friendship and moral theories has so far concentrated on the nature of practical reason. A similar debate focuses on the nature of value. Scanlon (1998) uses friendship to argue against what he calls teleological conceptions of values presupposed by consequentialism. The teleological view understands states of affairs to have intrinsic value, and our recognition of such value provides us with reasons to bring such states of affairs into existence and to sustain and promote them. Scanlon argues that friendship involves kinds of reasons—of loyalty, for example—are not teleological in this way, and so the value of friendship does not fit into the teleological conception and so cannot be properly recognized by consequentialism. In responding to this argument, Hurka (2006) argues that this argument presupposes a conception of the value of friendship (as something we ought to respect as well as to promote) that is at odds with the teleological conception of value and so with teleological conceptions of friendship. Consequently, the debate must shift to the more general question about the nature of value and cannot be carried out simply by attending to friendship.

These conclusions that we must turn to broader issues if we are to settle the place friendship has in morality reveal that in one sense the friendship critique has failed: it has not succeeded in making an end run around traditional debates between consequentialists, deontologists, and virtue theorists. Yet in a larger sense it has succeeded: it has forced these moral theories to take personal relationships seriously and consequently to refine and complicate their accounts in the process.

• Alfano, M., 2016, “Friendship and the Structure of Trust”, in A. Masala and J. Webber (eds.), From Personality to Virtue , Oxford: Oxford University Press, 186–206.
• Annas, J., 1977, “Plato and Aristotle on Friendship and Altruism”, Mind , 86: 532–54.
• –––, 1988, “Self-Love in Aristotle”, Southern Journal of Philosophy (Supplement), 7: 1–18.
• Annis, D.B., 1987, “The Meaning, Value, and Duties of Friendship”, American Philosophical Quarterly , 24: 349–56.
• Badhwar, N.K., 1987, “Friends as Ends in Themselves”, Philosophy & Phenomenological Research , 48: 1–23.
• –––, 1991, “Why It Is Wrong to Be Always Guided by the Best: Consequentialism and Friendship”, Ethics , 101: 483–504.
• –––, (ed.), 1993, Friendship: A Philosophical Reader , Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press.
• –––, 2003, “Love”, in H. LaFollette (ed.), Practical Ethics , Oxford: Oxford University Press, 42–69.
• Bernstein, M, 2007, “Friends without Favoritism”, Journal of Value Inquiry , 41: 59–76.
• Biss, M., 2019, “Friendship, Trust, and Moral Self-Perfection”,  Philosophers’ Imprint , 19: 1–16.
• Blum, L.A., 1980, Friendship, Altruism, and Morality , London: Routledge & Kegan Paul.
• –––, 1993, “Friendship as a Moral Phenomenon”, in Badhwar (1993), 192–210.
• Bratman, M.E., 1999, Faces of Intention: Selected Essays on Intention and Agency , Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
• Brink, D.O., 1999, “Eudaimonism, Love and Friendship, and Political Community”, Social Philosophy & Policy , 16: 252–289.
• Card, R.F., 2004, “Consequentialism, Teleology, and the New Friendship Critique”, Pacific Philosophical Quarterly , 85: 149–72.
• Cocking, D. & Kennett, J., 1998, “Friendship and the Self”, Ethics , 108: 502–27.
• –––, 2000, “Friendship and Moral Danger”, Journal of Philosophy , 97: 278–96.
• Cocking, D. & Oakley, J., 1995, “Indirect Consequentialism, Friendship, and the Problem of Alienation”, Ethics , 106: 86–111.
• Collins, S., 2013, “Duties to Make Friends”, Ethical Theory and Moral Practice , 16: 907–21.
• Conee, E., 2001, “Friendship and Consequentialism”, Australasian Journal of Philosophy , 79: 161–79.
• Cooper, J.M., 1977a, “Aristotle on the Forms of Friendship”, Review of Metaphysics , 30: 619–48.
• –––, 1977b, “Friendship and the Good in Aristotle”, Philosophical Review , 86: 290–315.
• Friedman, M.A., 1989, “Friendship and Moral Growth”, Journal of Value Inquiry , 23: 3–13.
• –––, 1993, What Are Friends For? Feminist Perspectives on Personal Relationships and Moral Theory , Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press.
• –––, 1998, “Romantic Love and Personal Autonomy”, Midwest Studies in Philosophy , 22: 162–81.
• Grunebaum, J.O., 2005, “Fair-Weather Friendships”, Journal of Value Inquiry , 39: 203–14.
• Gilbert, M., 1996, Living Together: Rationality, Sociality, and Obligation , Rowman & Littlefield.
• –––, 2000, Sociality and Responsibility: New Essays in Plural Subject Theory , Rowman & Littlefield.
• –––, 2006, A Theory of Political Obligation: Membership, Commitment, and the Bonds of Society , Oxford: Oxford University Press.
• Helm, B., 2008, “Plural Agents,” Noûs , 42: 17–49.
• Hoffman, E., 1997, “Love as a Kind of Friendship”, in Sex, Love, and Friendship: Studies of the Society for the Philosophy of Sex and Love 1977–92 , Amsterdam: Rodopi, 109–119.
• Hurka, T., 2006, “Value and Friendship: A More Subtle View”, Utilitas , 18: 232–42.
• Isserow, J, 2018, “On Having Bad Persons as Friends”,  Philosophical Studies , 175: 3099–116.
• Jeske, D., 1997, “Friendship, Virtue, and Impartiality”, Philosophy & Phenomenological Research , 57: 51–72.
• –––, 2008, “Friendship and the Grounds of Reasons”, Les Ateliers de l’Ethique , 3: 61–69.
• Kawall, J., 2013, “Friendship and Epistemic Norms”, Philosophical Studies , 165: 349–70.
• Keller, S., 2000, “How Do I Love Thee? Let Me Count the Properties”, American Philosophical Quarterly , 37: 163–73.
• –––, 2007, The Limits of Loyalty , New York: Cambridge University Press.
• Koltonski, D., 2016. “A Good Friend Will Help You Move a Body: Friendship and the Problem of Moral Disagreement”, Philosophical Review , 125: 473–507.
• Liddell, H.G., Scott, R., Jones, H.S., & McKenzie, R., 1940, A Greek-English Lexicon , Oxford: Clarendon Press, 9th edn.
• Lintott, S., 2015, “Friendship and Bias: Ethical and Epistemic Considerations”,  Journal of Social Philosophy , 46: 318–39.
• Lynch, S., 2005, Philosophy and Friendship , Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press.
• Mason, E., 1998, “Can an Indirect Consequentialist Be a Real Friend?”, Ethics , 108: 386–93.
• Millgram, E., 1987, “Aristotle on Making Other Selves”, Canadian Journal of Philosophy , 17: 361–76.
• Moore, C. & Frederick, S., 2017, “Narrative Constitution of Friendship”,  Dialogue: Canadian Philosophical Review , 56: 111–30.
• Nehamas, A., 2010, “The Good of Friendship”, Proceedings of the Aristotelian Society , 110: 267–94.
• Nozick, R., 1989, “Love’s Bond”, in The Examined Life: Philosophical Meditations , Simon & Schuster, 68–86.
• Railton, P., 1984, “Alienation, Consequentialism, and the Demands of Morality”, Philosophy & Public Affairs , 13: 134–71.
• Rorty, A.O., 1986/1993, “The Historicity of Psychological Attitudes: Love is Not Love Which Alters Not When It Alteration Finds”, in Badhwar (1993), 73–88.
• Sadler, B., 2006, “Love, Friendship, Morality”, Philosophical Forum , 37: 243–63.
• Scanlon, T.M., 1998, What We Owe to Each Other , Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.
• Schoeman, F., 1985, “Aristotle on the Good of Friendship”, Australasian Journal of Philosophy , 63: 269–82.
• Searle, J.R., 1990, “Collective Intentions and Actions”, in P.R. Cohen, M.E. Pollack, & J.L. Morgan (eds.), Intentions in Communication , Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 401–15.
• Sherman, N., 1987, “Aristotle on Friendship and the Shared Life”, Philosophy & Phenomenological Research , 47: 589–613.
• Stocker, M., 1976, “The Schizophrenia of Modern Ethical Theories”, Journal of Philosophy , 73: 453–66.
• –––, 1981, “Values and Purposes: The Limits of Teleology and the Ends of Friendship”, Journal of Philosophy , 78: 747–65.
• Stroud, S., 2006, “Epistemic Partiality in Friendship”, Ethics , 116: 498–524.
• Taylor, G., 1985, Pride, Shame, and Guilt: Emotions of Self-Assessment , Oxford: Oxford University Press.
• Tedesco, M., 2006, “Indirect Consequentialism, Suboptimality, and Friendship”, Pacific Philosophical Quarterly , 87: 567–77.
• Telfer, E., 1970–71, “Friendship”, Proceedings of the Aristotelian Society , 71: 223–41.
• Thomas, L., 1987, “Friendship”, Synthese , 72: 217–36.
• –––, 1989, “Friends and Lovers”, in G. Graham & H. LaFollette (eds.), Person to Person , Philadelphia, PA: Temple University Press, 182–98.
• –––, 1993, “Friendship and Other Loves”, in Badhwar (1993), 48–64.
• –––, 1999, “Split-Level Equality: Mixing Love and Equality”, in S. Babbitt & S. Campbell (eds.),  Racism and Philosophy , Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press, 189–201.
• –––, 2013, “The Character of Friendship”, in Danial Caluori (ed.), Thinking about Friendship: Historical and Contemporary Perspectives , New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 30–46.
• Tuomela, R., 1995, The Importance of Us: A Philosophical Study of Basic Social Notions , Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press.
• –––, 2007, The Philosophy of Sociality: The Shared Point of View , Oxford: Oxford University Press.
• Velleman, J. David, 1999. “Love as a Moral Emotion”, Ethics , 109: 338–74.
• White, R.J., 1999a, “Friendship: Ancient and Modern”, International Philosophical Quarterly , 39: 19–34.
• –––, 1999b, “Friendship and Commitment”, Journal of Value Inquiry , 33: 79–88.
• –––, 2001, Love’s Philosophy , Rowman & Littlefield.
• Whiting, J.E., 1986, “Friends and Future Selves”, Philosophical Review , 95: 547–80.
• –––, 1991, “Impersonal Friends”, Monist , 74: 3–29.
• Wilcox, W.H., 1987, “Egoists, Consequentialists, and Their Friends”, Philosophy & Public Affairs , 16: 73–84.
• Williams, B., 1981, “Persons, Character, and Morality”, in Moral Luck , Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1–19.
• Woodcock, S., 2010, “Moral Schizophrenia and the Paradox of Friendship”, Utilitas , 22: 1–25.

How to cite this entry . Preview the PDF version of this entry at the Friends of the SEP Society . Look up topics and thinkers related to this entry at the Internet Philosophy Ontology Project (InPhO). Enhanced bibliography for this entry at PhilPapers , with links to its database.

• Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics , Translated by W. D. Ross.
• Moseley, A., ‘ Philosophy of Love ’, in the Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy .
• Doyle, M. E. and Smith, M. K., 2002, ‘ Friendship: Theory and Experience ’, in The Encyclopaedia of Informal Education , hosted by Informal Education and Lifelong Learning.

Aristotle, General Topics: ethics | character, moral | cognitivism vs. non-cognitivism, moral | consequentialism | consequentialism: rule | ethics: deontological | ethics: virtue | impartiality | love | obligations: special | Plato: ethics | Plato: friendship and eros | Plato: rhetoric and poetry | respect | value: intrinsic vs. extrinsic

Copyright © 2021 by Bennett Helm < bennett . helm @ fandm . edu >

• Accessibility

Support SEP

Mirror sites.

View this site from another server:

• Info about mirror sites

The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy is copyright © 2024 by The Metaphysics Research Lab , Department of Philosophy, Stanford University

Library of Congress Catalog Data: ISSN 1095-5054

Samantha Putterman, PolitiFact Samantha Putterman, PolitiFact

Leave your feedback

• Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/fact-checking-warnings-from-democrats-about-project-2025-and-donald-trump

Fact-checking warnings from Democrats about Project 2025 and Donald Trump

This fact check originally appeared on PolitiFact .

Project 2025 has a starring role in this week’s Democratic National Convention.

And it was front and center on Night 1.

WATCH: Hauling large copy of Project 2025, Michigan state Sen. McMorrow speaks at 2024 DNC

“This is Project 2025,” Michigan state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, D-Royal Oak, said as she laid a hardbound copy of the 900-page document on the lectern. “Over the next four nights, you are going to hear a lot about what is in this 900-page document. Why? Because this is the Republican blueprint for a second Trump term.”

Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, has warned Americans about “Trump’s Project 2025” agenda — even though former President Donald Trump doesn’t claim the conservative presidential transition document.

“Donald Trump wants to take our country backward,” Harris said July 23 in Milwaukee. “He and his extreme Project 2025 agenda will weaken the middle class. Like, we know we got to take this seriously, and can you believe they put that thing in writing?”

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Harris’ running mate, has joined in on the talking point.

“Don’t believe (Trump) when he’s playing dumb about this Project 2025. He knows exactly what it’ll do,” Walz said Aug. 9 in Glendale, Arizona.

Trump’s campaign has worked to build distance from the project, which the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, led with contributions from dozens of conservative groups.

Much of the plan calls for extensive executive-branch overhauls and draws on both long-standing conservative principles, such as tax cuts, and more recent culture war issues. It lays out recommendations for disbanding the Commerce and Education departments, eliminating certain climate protections and consolidating more power to the president.

Project 2025 offers a sweeping vision for a Republican-led executive branch, and some of its policies mirror Trump’s 2024 agenda, But Harris and her presidential campaign have at times gone too far in describing what the project calls for and how closely the plans overlap with Trump’s campaign.

PolitiFact researched Harris’ warnings about how the plan would affect reproductive rights, federal entitlement programs and education, just as we did for President Joe Biden’s Project 2025 rhetoric. Here’s what the project does and doesn’t call for, and how it squares with Trump’s positions.

Are Trump and Project 2025 connected?

To distance himself from Project 2025 amid the Democratic attacks, Trump wrote on Truth Social that he “knows nothing” about it and has “no idea” who is in charge of it. (CNN identified at least 140 former advisers from the Trump administration who have been involved.)

The Heritage Foundation sought contributions from more than 100 conservative organizations for its policy vision for the next Republican presidency, which was published in 2023.

Project 2025 is now winding down some of its policy operations, and director Paul Dans, a former Trump administration official, is stepping down, The Washington Post reported July 30. Trump campaign managers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita denounced the document.

WATCH: A look at the Project 2025 plan to reshape government and Trump’s links to its authors

However, Project 2025 contributors include a number of high-ranking officials from Trump’s first administration, including former White House adviser Peter Navarro and former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson.

A recently released recording of Russell Vought, a Project 2025 author and the former director of Trump’s Office of Management and Budget, showed Vought saying Trump’s “very supportive of what we do.” He said Trump was only distancing himself because Democrats were making a bogeyman out of the document.

Project 2025 wouldn’t ban abortion outright, but would curtail access

The Harris campaign shared a graphic on X that claimed “Trump’s Project 2025 plan for workers” would “go after birth control and ban abortion nationwide.”

The plan doesn’t call to ban abortion nationwide, though its recommendations could curtail some contraceptives and limit abortion access.

What’s known about Trump’s abortion agenda neither lines up with Harris’ description nor Project 2025’s wish list.

Project 2025 says the Department of Health and Human Services Department should “return to being known as the Department of Life by explicitly rejecting the notion that abortion is health care.”

It recommends that the Food and Drug Administration reverse its 2000 approval of mifepristone, the first pill taken in a two-drug regimen for a medication abortion. Medication is the most common form of abortion in the U.S. — accounting for around 63 percent in 2023.

If mifepristone were to remain approved, Project 2025 recommends new rules, such as cutting its use from 10 weeks into pregnancy to seven. It would have to be provided to patients in person — part of the group’s efforts to limit access to the drug by mail. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected a legal challenge to mifepristone’s FDA approval over procedural grounds.

WATCH: Trump’s plans for health care and reproductive rights if he returns to White House The manual also calls for the Justice Department to enforce the 1873 Comstock Act on mifepristone, which bans the mailing of “obscene” materials. Abortion access supporters fear that a strict interpretation of the law could go further to ban mailing the materials used in procedural abortions, such as surgical instruments and equipment.

The plan proposes withholding federal money from states that don’t report to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention how many abortions take place within their borders. The plan also would prohibit abortion providers, such as Planned Parenthood, from receiving Medicaid funds. It also calls for the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure that the training of medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, omits abortion training.

The document says some forms of emergency contraception — particularly Ella, a pill that can be taken within five days of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy — should be excluded from no-cost coverage. The Affordable Care Act requires most private health insurers to cover recommended preventive services, which involves a range of birth control methods, including emergency contraception.

Trump has recently said states should decide abortion regulations and that he wouldn’t block access to contraceptives. Trump said during his June 27 debate with Biden that he wouldn’t ban mifepristone after the Supreme Court “approved” it. But the court rejected the lawsuit based on standing, not the case’s merits. He has not weighed in on the Comstock Act or said whether he supports it being used to block abortion medication, or other kinds of abortions.

Project 2025 doesn’t call for cutting Social Security, but proposes some changes to Medicare

“When you read (Project 2025),” Harris told a crowd July 23 in Wisconsin, “you will see, Donald Trump intends to cut Social Security and Medicare.”

The Project 2025 document does not call for Social Security cuts. None of its 10 references to Social Security addresses plans for cutting the program.

Harris also misleads about Trump’s Social Security views.

In his earlier campaigns and before he was a politician, Trump said about a half-dozen times that he’s open to major overhauls of Social Security, including cuts and privatization. More recently, in a March 2024 CNBC interview, Trump said of entitlement programs such as Social Security, “There’s a lot you can do in terms of entitlements, in terms of cutting.” However, he quickly walked that statement back, and his CNBC comment stands at odds with essentially everything else Trump has said during the 2024 presidential campaign.

Trump’s campaign website says that not “a single penny” should be cut from Social Security. We rated Harris’ claim that Trump intends to cut Social Security Mostly False.

Project 2025 does propose changes to Medicare, including making Medicare Advantage, the private insurance offering in Medicare, the “default” enrollment option. Unlike Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans have provider networks and can also require prior authorization, meaning that the plan can approve or deny certain services. Original Medicare plans don’t have prior authorization requirements.

The manual also calls for repealing health policies enacted under Biden, such as the Inflation Reduction Act. The law enabled Medicare to negotiate with drugmakers for the first time in history, and recently resulted in an agreement with drug companies to lower the prices of 10 expensive prescriptions for Medicare enrollees.

Trump, however, has said repeatedly during the 2024 presidential campaign that he will not cut Medicare.

Project 2025 would eliminate the Education Department, which Trump supports

The Harris campaign said Project 2025 would “eliminate the U.S. Department of Education” — and that’s accurate. Project 2025 says federal education policy “should be limited and, ultimately, the federal Department of Education should be eliminated.” The plan scales back the federal government’s role in education policy and devolves the functions that remain to other agencies.

Aside from eliminating the department, the project also proposes scrapping the Biden administration’s Title IX revision, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It also would let states opt out of federal education programs and calls for passing a federal parents’ bill of rights similar to ones passed in some Republican-led state legislatures.

Republicans, including Trump, have pledged to close the department, which gained its status in 1979 within Democratic President Jimmy Carter’s presidential Cabinet.

In one of his Agenda 47 policy videos, Trump promised to close the department and “to send all education work and needs back to the states.” Eliminating the department would have to go through Congress.

What Project 2025, Trump would do on overtime pay

In the graphic, the Harris campaign says Project 2025 allows “employers to stop paying workers for overtime work.”

The plan doesn’t call for banning overtime wages. It recommends changes to some Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, regulations and to overtime rules. Some changes, if enacted, could result in some people losing overtime protections, experts told us.

The document proposes that the Labor Department maintain an overtime threshold “that does not punish businesses in lower-cost regions (e.g., the southeast United States).” This threshold is the amount of money executive, administrative or professional employees need to make for an employer to exempt them from overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

In 2019, the Trump’s administration finalized a rule that expanded overtime pay eligibility to most salaried workers earning less than about $35,568, which it said made about 1.3 million more workers eligible for overtime pay. The Trump-era threshold is high enough to cover most line workers in lower-cost regions, Project 2025 said.

The Biden administration raised that threshold to $43,888 beginning July 1, and that will rise to $58,656 on Jan. 1, 2025. That would grant overtime eligibility to about 4 million workers, the Labor Department said.

It’s unclear how many workers Project 2025’s proposal to return to the Trump-era overtime threshold in some parts of the country would affect, but experts said some would presumably lose the right to overtime wages.

Other overtime proposals in Project 2025’s plan include allowing some workers to choose to accumulate paid time off instead of overtime pay, or to work more hours in one week and fewer in the next, rather than receive overtime.

Trump’s past with overtime pay is complicated. In 2016, the Obama administration said it would raise the overtime to salaried workers earning less than $47,476 a year, about double the exemption level set in 2004 of $23,660 a year.

But when a judge blocked the Obama rule, the Trump administration didn’t challenge the court ruling. Instead it set its own overtime threshold, which raised the amount, but by less than Obama.

Support Provided By: Learn more

Educate your inbox

Subscribe to Here’s the Deal, our politics newsletter for analysis you won’t find anywhere else.

Thank you. Please check your inbox to confirm.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Guest Essay

I Have Been Studying Poker for Years. Kamala Harris Isn’t Bluffing.

By Nate Silver

Mr. Silver is the author of the book “On the Edge: The Art of Risking Everything.”

In recent years, for a new book , I have spent time in a community of like-minded thinkers who take calculated risks for a living. These people, from poker players to venture capitalists — I call them the River, and they are from Silicon Valley, Wall Street, sports betting, crypto — make decisions based not on what they know at the moment but on expected value. For them, when it is time to make a decision, the question is: Do the risks outweigh the rewards?

The River is the rival of the group of academics, journalists and policy wonks that I call the Village. This term might be more familiar: It’s the East Coast expert class. Harvard and Yale. The New York Times and The Washington Post. Together, these communities make up only a small percent of the population — in short, they are elites.

The Village tends toward risk aversion, as evident in its Covid caution and its increasing wariness about free speech (which very much can have sticks-and-stones consequences ). It tends to make decisions by consensus, with dissenters punished by ostracization — or if you prefer, cancellation.

The River has been on a winning streak in terms of its impact on society and our economy: Its core industries, tech and finance, continually grow as fractions of the economy, and Las Vegas is bringing in record revenues. Not just baseball but pretty much everything has been “Moneyball”-ized, which is to say quantified and then monetized in some way.

Looking at politics through the lens of the River and Village communities, and their approaches to risk, can offer some interesting insight — and surprise.

The groups don’t map equally clearly onto our political institutions. In Trumpian times, with voting highly polarized along educational lines, the Village is overwhelmingly Democratic. The River’s politics aren’t quite as straightforward. Aloof and analytical, preoccupied with pursuits such as poker, not everyone in the River is a G.O.P. partisan. In fact, if you surveyed people I consider part of the River about their preferred presidential candidates, my guess is that Kamala Harris would get more votes than Donald Trump — although with an outsize third-party vote.

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and  log into  your Times account, or  subscribe  for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber?  Log in .

Want all of The Times?  Subscribe .