Code of Street Peer Response

Code of Street Peer Response

Peer 1: Ariel

I agree with your perception of decent values as a significant identifier within the American middle class. The values advanced through the working poor are what are termed as American by mainstreaming the ideas of self-reliance, sacrifice, hard work, observation and abiding by the laws, and pursuit of education. I particularly like your introduction of religion into these values, because it plays a vital role in defining the said value and giving them more power. Street values and respect have created a buzzword, which you mention in your work; street cred. I like how you define it simply as a response to various situations that are used to define worth and personhood. On collective efficacy, do you think the concept goes beyond a community into larger societies such as a nation’s ability to maintain order?Peer 2: Sandra

The idea of mainstream thought that is embedded in decent values are important in defining a society as you have mentioned. I agree with your position that the definition of these values is largely left to the working poor, or the middle class. Particularly, your presentation provides an important perspective that the values held by these working poor allow them to navigate life, as evidenced by their status in their communities and also their understanding of respect and code of the street. By having decent values, these communities do not neglect the rules of the street, but rather steer clear of their path. Your focus on collective efficacy as a tool to enhance the education system is refreshing. I think ore can be achieved by societies if they focus all of their energies on ensuring that decent values are a part of the education system for the working poor communities.