* Note: I chose a not widely accepted point of view to show that your opinion is quality only if you have supporting reasons. Do I actually believe this way? Uh...no. Focus on the format I used. This same format will help you formulate your essay. Notice how when quotes are used, I made it clear why I chose these quotes. The number that follows the quotes is called an endnote and will later be used in my bibliography.

........In today's society, the question of personal privacy continues to dominate the thoughts of our chosen leaders. Each day headlines adorn our nation's newspapers claiming another political personality or entertainment icon has a "skeleton in his closet". Stories of personal failures and human flaws take precedence over more important issues like poverty, disease, and racism. Should the American press continue to delve into the lives of our most endearing and intriguing personalities? According to our Bill of Rights, "Congress shall make no law...abridging the freedom...of the press." Centuries ago, our Founding Fathers, led by the dominating presence of James Madison, decided this right was of the upmost importance. Freedom of the press remains an intrical aspect of today's government because it ensures that Americans know which of their favorite actors are currently romantically involved, it punishes popular people who make too much money, and it keeps political leaders constantly petrified of their past coming back to haunt them.

.........Because the lives of so many Americans are tedious and dull, it is important that the common man knows how his idols act away from their work. Every year, People Magazine comes out with its 25 Most Intriguing People of the Year. Americans have a right to know the information held between the covers of these riveting documentaries. In the most recent issue (March 1998), the talented investigators discovered that Leonardo Dicaprio frequents nightclubs, Courtney Cox is on a diet, and Ally McBeal enjoys wearing skirts. This crucial information allows hardworkers to escape the struggles of their days and empathize with their heroes. Ronald Simpson, a steelworker from Des Moines, Iowa exclaimed, "My life may be bad, but at least I'm not Jim Carrey." (Collins 42) This statement by Mr. Simpson shows how a man who might not make a huge salary still prefers his life to one where privacy is constantly invaded. In addition to providing additional entertainment, these newsbreaks also provide conversation material for both work and home. What would humans talk about if the lives of others were not available to analyze? Fortunately, the gossiping skills first learned during adolescence are able to be implemented during adulthood.