Capitalism and Identity

Armando Teran Jr

9/22/10

English 215

Hidden Histories

            John D’Emilio argues in his article that the cause for exposing gay identity in America was caused by capitalism. The term capitalism refers to private organizations creating businesses for profit. The author briefly discusses the history of capitalism in America. His entire article seems based on speculation as opposed to facts regarding to the issue of capitalism is the reason for Americans exposing their gay identity. There are also several other factors to consider when explaining how individuals were able to express their sexual preference openly. John D’Emilio is correct to argue that capitalism has changed over the years, but he is wrong to state that it caused many Americans to publicly express their sexual preference.

            The state of the American family has changed significantly over time due to technology and social networks. Computers and social networks have changed how families communicate. The economy in America has also changed drastically over time just like capitalism. For example American’s economy was skyrocketing to the top before the recession. There were plenty of jobs for individuals and there was no budget cuts going on. The housing market was at its best but then the recession struck America.

            The recession caused America to cut back on many government jobs. Many Americans were unemployed and the housing market crashed. I do not think that capitalism was the cause for the recession or the reason why several Americans decided to expose their gay identity. I think that there were many other factors that caused America’s drastic economic change and the more widely expressed sexual identity by individuals.