Do you agree or disagree with the following statement?
	"Today's mass media transform famous people into instant role models and heroes. These men and women are obliged to lead exemplary lives and leave a positive mark on society."
Please review the arguments for and against the statement and enter your response.
		Pros Heroes must be role models for society and live lives above reproach. The power of the mass media amplifies their ability to influence the youth of society. The notorious actions of Tonya Harding, Dennis Rodman or Mike Tyson, for example, will have a direct effect on the next generation of athletes. If our heroes continue to model inappropriate behavior, the noble qualities promoted by the code of sportsman-like conduct will be lost. Ultimately, the world will be a less safe place.
		Cons It is ridiculous to expect a person who has become famous to change his or her behavior and "live a life beyond reproach." This issue is confusing what it means to be a hero with being famous. It is not the job of the media to paint an idyllic picture of heroic role models. In the long run, it is much healthier to see the famous for what they are: imperfect human beings with faults of their own. Artificial images of perfect heroes make the realities of life more difficult to accept.
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