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Frequently Asked Questions about LSAT Argumentative Writing

LSAC strives to ensure LSAT ®  takers have the information and resources they need to succeed on test day, including up-to-date information about LSAT Argumentative Writing SM . The FAQs below have been compiled based on common questions we receive about LSAT Argumentative Writing and have been divided into subjects to help you find the information you’re looking for.

Additional FAQ collections address specific aspects of the test, such as  The LSAT ,  Testing Accommodations , and  LSAT Score Preview .

If you can’t find an answer to your question, please contact our Candidate Services team:

Chat:  You can start a conversation with an LSAC customer service representative via chat by using the icon at the bottom-right corner of your screen. Our chat feature is available during business hours.

Email:   [email protected]

Phone:   1.800.336.3982

Hours:  Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET Saturday and Sunday: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. ET Please note that  holiday hours  may differ.

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Registering for lsat argumentative writing, preparing for lsat argumentative writing, disability-related test accommodations, test and test-taker security, taking lsat argumentative writing, lsat scores and law school admission, how do i register for lsat argumentative writing.

One administration of LSAT Argumentative Writing is included in your LSAT registration. By registering for the LSAT, you will be automatically eligible to complete the writing section as early as eight (8) days prior to taking the multiple-choice portion of the LSAT. You can access LSAT Argumentative Writing from your LSAC JD Account.

What does LSAT Argumentative Writing cost?

The LSAT registration fee includes both the multiple-choice portion of the LSAT and LSAT Argumentative Writing. There are no additional fees associated with LSAT Argumentative Writing.

Do I have to take LSAT Argumentative Writing if I have already completed a writing sample during a previous LSAT administration?

No. Test takers are only required to have one writing sample on file for their LSAT to be considered complete. Writing samples may be from either a previous LSAT administration, an administration of LSAT Writing, or an administration of LSAT Argumentative Writing.

Can I register to take LSAT Argumentative Writing as a standalone?

No, we are not offering standalone LSAT Argumentative Writing. For questions, please contact LSAC’s Customer Relationships team via chat or at [email protected] or 1.800.336.3982 .

Is LSAT Argumentative Writing available outside of North America?

Yes. LSAT Argumentative Writing is available in all locations with access to the internet.

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What kind of computer do I need in order to take LSAT Argumentative Writing?

LSAT Argumentative Writing requires a desktop or laptop computer running Windows or Mac OS that has a webcam, a microphone, only one connected monitor, and an internet connection.

Important Notes

• LSAT Argumentative Writing is not compatible with mobile devices, Chrome OS, or Linux. 
• Be sure that you have administrative rights to the computer on which you’ll take the test. (This is so you can download the required proctoring software.)
• Before you launch LSAT Argumentative Writing, be sure to shut down all non-essential applications. This includes disabling any grammar-checking extensions (e.g., Grammarly, Microsoft Editor, etc.).

How will I log in to take LSAT Argumentative Writing?

Test takers will launch LSAT Argumentative Writing using the link provided on the LSAT Argumentative Writing page of their LSAC JD Account. The link will be made available at 12 a.m. (ET) eight (8) days prior to the start of the test taker’s LSAT administration. LSAT Argumentative Writing can only be launched from the individualized link provided in the test taker’s account.

Do I need any identification to take LSAT Argumentative Writing?

Every test taker is required to present a physical, valid international passport or a physical, valid government-issued photo ID issued by the United States of America, U.S. Territories, or Canada. The ID must be current (or have expired within 3 months of your test date) and must contain:

• A recent and recognizable photo of you
• Your first name
• Your last name
• Your date of birth

The first and last name listed on your ID  must exactly match  the legal first and last name associated with your LSAC JD Account. You can make changes to your legal name on the “Profile” page in your account. For more information, please visit  Biographical Information Changes . 

This is important. By law, U.S. military IDs cannot be photographed and thus cannot be used for this purpose.

Learn more about ID accepted for LSAT admission

What features are included in the LSAT Argumentative Writing interface?

LSAT Argumentative Writing’s interface offers:

• Built-in, user-adjustable tools such as a feature to increase text size incrementally and a line-spacing function.
• Highlighting and underlining tools , which can be used to mark key points in the prompt.
• Digital “Scratch Paper,” which enables test takers to type notes, instead of writing them on a physical piece of scratch paper. Physical scratch paper is not permitted for LSAT Argumentative Writing.

Additionally, misspellings in the LSAT Argumentative Writing essay are underlined in accordance with the web browser’s spell-check feature. However, alternate spelling suggestions are not available within the test environment. 

To get familiar with the LSAT Argumentative  Writing interface and experience, we encourage test takers to explore the LSAT Argumentative Writing Prep #1 practice prompt available for free through LawHub™.

Does LSAT Argumentative Writing impose a word or space limit for the writing sample?

There is no word or space limit for LSAT Argumentative  Writing. You are advised not to worry about the length of your writing sample, but instead to concentrate on crafting a response to the prompt that is well-written, cogent, and well-argued.

Will I be able to request accommodations for LSAT Argumentative Writing?

Yes. Test takers can submit requests for accommodations for LSAT Argumentative  Writing at the same time they request accommodations for the multiple-choice portion of the LSAT, using the same online form.

What accommodations are available on LSAT Argumentative Writing?

For information regarding available testing accommodations, visit  Accommodations that May Be Available on the LSAT .

Some accommodations that are available on the LSAT will not be needed for LSAT Argumentative  Writing (e.g., extra breaks between sections, a non-Scantron answer sheet).

How is test security managed for LSAT Argumentative Writing?

The secure proctoring platform uses input from the webcam, microphone, and screen of the test taker’s computer to ensure that the writing sample is the test taker’s own work, and that the test taker is not receiving any inappropriate assistance.

Prior to the test, test takers will complete a video check-in process. As part of the check-in process, test takers will be required to clearly display a physical, valid government-issued photo ID issued by the United States of America, U.S. Territories, or Canada, or a physical, valid international passport for the camera to capture. This image must not be blurry or out of focus. Test takers will also be required to show their workspace using their webcam, to ensure that only permissible items are in that space. The room will be scanned to make sure no other people or prohibited items are present. Test takers who require additional items in their workspace due to a disability may seek appropriate accommodations through the standard procedures for   requesting testing accommodations .  

Audio and video from every testing session will be reviewed by trained proctors.

What steps is LSAC taking to protect my privacy?

Initial reviews of LSAT Argumentative  Writing videos will be conducted by trained proctors in a secure, supervised environment. If a video is flagged for suspicious behavior or test conduct violations, LSAC trained staff will review it for the limited purpose of investigating and handling any such misconduct or violations .  Please see the LSAC Privacy Policy for how LSAC collects, uses, discloses, and otherwise processes information.

What will be recorded during the test, and what will you do with the videos after the test?

Input from the test taker’s webcam and microphone will be recorded, as well as everything happening on the test taker’s screen during the test. No videos or images from LSAT Argumentative  Writing will be shared with any law schools. However, audio and video data will be retained in a secure location for later review in the event of a test security investigation and/or misconduct and irregularities investigation.  See Misconduct & Irregularities and the  LSAC Candidate Agreement for more information.

What electronic devices are prohibited?

Devices that cannot be in the room during LSAT Argumentative  Writing include timers of any kind, watches of any kind, electronic cigarettes, fitness-tracking devices, mobile phones, beepers, pagers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), calculators, cameras, recording devices, listening devices (including, but not limited to headphones, ear buds, Air Pods, and other electronic listening devices and/or noise-canceling devices other than generic foam ear plugs), headsets, and iPods and other media players. Please note that tablets, laptops, and personal computers not being used to take LSAT Argumentative  Writing are prohibited.

Prohibited electronic devices may not be in the room during the test because they cannot be monitored via your webcam feed. Please be aware that your testing session will be flagged, and your writing sample canceled, if any prohibited electronics are noted during the room scan portion of your check-in. This includes any monitors or desktop computers that happen to be on the desk you may be resting your laptop on during the writing session. If your session is flagged, your audio and video data may be referred for an investigation by the Misconduct and Irregularities Subcommittee. More information can be found at   Misconduct & Irregularities and in the  LSAC Candidate Agreement .

What other items are prohibited?

Test takers may not use briefcases, handbags, or backpacks of any kind. Head coverings of any kind (e.g., hats, hoods, bonnets, durags, scarves, etc.) may not be worn, unless the head covering is a religious requirement. Sunglasses or other eyewear with tinted lenses may not be worn. Books, printed materials, scratch paper, writing implements (regular or mechanical pencils, and/or ink pens), erasers, highlighters, and any reference materials (including, but not limited to, sticky notes, whiteboards, calendars, notebooks, guides, flyers, or other outside materials) prepared prior to the start of your session may not be used.

Non-electronic prohibited items can remain in the room, but they must be put away and not used, accessed, or referenced during the test.

What can I use to write notes since scratch paper is prohibited?

Unlike the multiple-choice portion of the LSAT, physical scratch paper and writing utensils are not permitted during the standard administration of LSAT Argumentative  Writing. Instead, the LSAT Argumentative  Writing interface includes a built-in, digital “Scratch Paper” section where you’ll be able to type notes, instead of writing them on a physical piece of scratch paper.

What if I need headphones, ear plugs, or earbuds to take the test?

Test takers may use soft, non-electronic, non-corded/banded, generic foam ear plugs. They must be individually shown to the camera during the security check-in procedure.  

Please note: Unless a specified accommodation has been granted, test takers cannot wear headphones, earbuds, or anything similar that is not a soft, non-electronic, non-corded/banded, generic foam ear plug. Additionally, e lectronic noise-canceling devices and/or other noise-canceling devices other than generic foam ear plugs approved by LSAC and/or LSAT Argumentative  Writing personnel are expressly prohibited.  These types of items are unable to be monitored and inhibit LSAC’s ability to ensure a fair and equal testing environment. LSAC’s goal is to safeguard your test and score by putting this policy in place to mitigate testing irregularities that could result in the cancellation of your LSAT Argumentative  Writing sample.

What if someone else enters the room while I am taking the test?

If someone else enters the room, you must ask them to leave immediately. You may continue testing once the person leaves the room. It is not necessary to restart LSAT Argumentative  Writing if a brief interruption occurs.

What if my pet enters the room while I’m taking the test?

If a pet wanders into the room while you are testing, you may continue testing. Your face must be clearly visible throughout the test, and once you begin, you cannot move out of view of the webcam until the test is over.

When can I take LSAT Argumentative Writing?

Test takers are eligible to take LSAT Argumentative  Writing starting eight (8) days prior to their LSAT administration. For your LSAT to be considered complete, you will need to take the LSAT Argumentative  Writing section of the test if you do not already have a writing sample on file from a previous LSAT administration. Most law schools require a writing sample as an integral part of their admission decision, and therefore, you should take the writing sample immediately to meet schools’ application deadlines. Once completed, reviewed, and approved, your writing sample will be shared with the law schools to which you have applied. Test takers will be required to have an approved writing sample in their file in order to see their test score or have their score released to law schools.

How long do I have to complete LSAT Argumentative Writing?

Most test takers will have a total of 50 minutes — 15 minutes for prewriting analysis and 35 minutes for essay writing.

If you do not have a writing sample on file, we encourage you to complete LSAT Argumentative Writing as soon as you can. LSAT Argumentative Writing opens eight (8) days prior to every test administration. Test takers must have a complete writing sample in their file in order to see their score or have their score released to schools. Most law schools require a writing sample as an integral part of their admission decision, and therefore, you should complete your writing sample to meet schools’ application deadlines.

In case you are not applying in the current cycle, please note you have a maximum of one year to complete your LSAT Argumentative Writing sample. For questions, please contact LSAC’s Candidate Services team at [email protected] or 1.800.336.3982 .

Does it matter which web browser I use to launch LSAT Argumentative Writing?

Yes. LSAT Argumentative Writing can only be launched from Chrome or Firefox. The three most recent versions of these browsers are supported. Safari and Edge are not supported at this time.

What items can I use during LSAT Argumentative Writing?

You are allowed to use the following items while taking LSAT Argumentative Writing:

• Soft foam earplugs (non-electronic, non-corded/banded, and generic foam earplugs)
• Water in a clear or transparent container with a lid or cap. All labels must be removed from the container.
• Medication/medical supplies (including eyeglasses)
• Diabetic testing or treatment supplies (Bluetooth-enabled medical devices must be pre-approved)

Each of these items must be shown to the camera during the security check-in procedure.

This is important.  Use of scratch paper is not permitted during LSAT Argumentative Writing, unless requested and approved as a testing accommodation. (The LSAT Argumentative Writing interface includes a digital “Scratch Paper” section where test takers can type notes, instead of writing them on a physical piece of scratch paper.)

What behaviors are prohibited?

Adhering to the highest moral and ethical standards is essential for those in the legal profession. Every test taker is required to sign a  Candidate Agreement  each time they take the LSAT. Please make sure you read the entire Agreement; rushing through it or ignoring any of it could have serious adverse consequences.

Generally, during the test you may not:

• Communicate with anyone other than your proctor
• Read aloud (unless the test taker has an approved accommodation)
• Allow your face to leave the webcam’s view
• Leave your seat
• Run any prohibited software applications
• Access any prohibited materials
• Connect or disconnect any external storage devices
• Behave in a noncompliant or abusive manner 
• Disable your camera or audio capabilities

After the test you may not:

• Share details of the writing sample in an oral or written form, which includes sharing content on the internet or through any means or media
• Copy, save, duplicate, or distribute any of the writing sample material on your computer or any written notes you may have used during the writing sample

How is LSAT Argumentative Writing proctored?

LSAT Argumentative Writing sessions are recorded and reviewed by a proctor after submission. The proctor will audit the recording for any testing irregularities or violations that may have occurred during the session, such as an illegible ID or possession of a prohibited item. If such an irregularity is discovered, the session will be flagged for LSAC to conduct an additional review and/or investigation.

Will a proctor be available to assist me?

Generally, a live proctor will not be available to guide you through the onscreen instructions. We strongly encourage you to carefully read all of the onscreen prompts and to familiarize yourself with the FAQs on this page. Skipping any steps may result in additional reviews and could cause your LSAT Argumentative Writing sample to be canceled and reset.

If you experience technical difficulties while taking LSAT Argumentative Writing, please contact the 24/7 technical support line at 1.855.772.8678 .  Technical support is available through your entire LSAT Argumentative Writing session.

How do I identify myself before the test?

When prompted, you must clearly display a physical, valid international passport or a physical, valid government-issued photo ID issued by the United States of America, U.S. Territories, or Canada to be photographed by the system. The first and last name on your ID must exactly match the legal first and last name associated with your LSAC JD Account.

Please ensure that the photo of your ID is clear and recognizable before capturing it. If the image of your ID is blurry, out of focus, or unrecognizable, a proctor will flag your ID as invalid when they review your session, your writing sample will be canceled, and you will need to submit a new writing sample. This may delay the release of your LSAT score to you and to law schools.

What if I don’t have my physical ID? Can I use a picture of it?

No. LSAC will only accept physical identification. Digital images, photocopies, etc., are  not  acceptable under any circumstances.

Can I use Grammarly or other browser extensions while taking LSAT Argumentative Writing?

No. Before launching LSAT Argumentative Writing, be sure to shut down all non-essential applications and disable any grammar-checking extensions, including Grammarly, Microsoft Editor, etc.  LSAT Argumentative Writing is designed to showcase an individual’s persuasive writing skills, and any program that adjust s  the essay wording or structure can modify the response into something that is no longer the test taker’s own work.

A spellcheck feature is built into the LawHub interface, but external  AI-assistive extensions and aids, such as Grammarly, MS Editor, Writefull, Wordtune, Reverso, etc., are not permitted.

Can I use assistive technology programs while I take LSAT Argumentative Writing?

Upon request, all LSAT Argumentative Writing test takers (with or without test accommodations) are permitted to use external computer programs to make web content accessible, such as screen magnification or keyboard-controlled screen reader software. To protect the security of test content, selectable text functionality (i.e., the ability to select text or place the cursor on the screen) is not available on any of LSAC’s products. Therefore, the computer-based LSAT Argumentative Writing is accessible with screen reader software programs that can be controlled and navigated using keystrokes and keyboard commands rather than text-to-speech software controlled and navigated using the mouse and cursor.

If you plan to use assistive technology programs while taking LSAT Argumentative Writing, you must inform LSAC by completing the Assistive Technology Form during registration. Test takers who require the use of special equipment to access the test are encouraged to use your programs and equipment to explore the LSAT Argumentative Writing Prep #1 practice prompt available through LawHub. This practice prompt is designed to enable test takers to become familiar with the LSAT Argumentative Writing interface and experience.

Contact LSAC for Questions and Support

If you have any questions about the accessibility of LSAC’s products, please contact  [email protected] .

If you require additional accommodation to access LSAT Argumentative Writing due to a disability, we encourage you to contact an LSAC Disability Customer Service Representative at  [email protected]  or  855.384.2253 for assistance. Any request for testing accommodations must be submitted by the applicable registration deadline. LSAC is committed to working with test takers to facilitate accessibility to LSAT Argumentative Writing.

Where should I take LSAT Argumentative Writing?

Choose a quiet, well-lit, fully enclosed, and private work area, where you can complete the test without interruption. You may not take the test in a location with transparent/glass walls, in a cubicle, or in a hotel lobby. Please ensure that your workspace is clean and clear of any prohibited items. You must be clearly visible from chin to forehead and from shoulder to shoulder throughout the test; once you begin, you cannot move out of view of the webcam until the test is over.

Will every test taker receive the same writing prompt?

No. Test takers will be presented with a randomly selected prompt that they have not seen during a previous administration of the LSAT or LSAT Argumentative  Writing.

I’m ready to take LSAT Argumentative Writing, but the link to launch the test isn’t on the LSAT Argumentative Writing page in my account. What do I do?

The link to launch LSAT Argumentative  Writing will not be available in your account until eight (8) days prior to the start of your LSAT administration. You can find the date that LSAT Argumentative  Writing will open for each administration at Upcoming LSAT Dates .

If you’re checking after your available date and you still don’t see the link, please call LSAC at 1.800.336.3982  and press 0 or send an email to [email protected] for assistance.

I accidentally closed my browser before submitting my writing sample. What should I do?

If you accidentally close out of LSAT Argumentative Writing during testing, you should immediately attempt to relaunch the test. To do this, return to your LSAC JD Account and select the “Launch LSAT Argumentative Writing” link.

If you are unable to relaunch LSAT Argumentative Writing, you will need to contact LSAC to reset your eligibility. This will allow you to restart LSAT Argumentative Writing with a new writing prompt. Please call LSAC at 1.800.336.3982 and press 0  or send an email to [email protected] for assistance.

What if I have technical difficulties during LSAT Argumentative Writing?

If you experience technical difficulties, please contact the 24/7 technical support line at 1.855.772.8678 . Please note that test takers who experience technical problems that prevent them from completing their writing sample will be given the opportunity to test again with a different writing prompt.

Is LSAT Argumentative Writing required for applying to law schools?

For your LSAT to be considered complete, you must have at least one writing sample on file — either from an earlier administration of the LSAT or from LSAT Argumentative  Writing.

If you do not have a writing sample on file, we encourage you to complete LSAT Argumentative  Writing as soon as you can. Test takers are required to have a completed writing sample in their file in order to see their test score or have their score released to law schools. Most law schools require a writing sample as an integral part of their admission decision, and therefore, you should take the writing sample immediately to meet schools’ application deadlines. Once completed, reviewed, and approved, your writing sample will be shared with the law schools to which you have applied.

To help test takers complete their writing sample, LSAT Argumentative  Writing opens eight (8) days prior to each test administration and can be completed at any time.   

If you already have a reportable writing sample on file, you do not need to complete LSAT Argumentative  Writing.

When will my LSAT Argumentative Writing sample be available for inclusion in my CAS Report?

Once completed, reviewed, and approved, your writing sample will be shared with the law schools to which you have applied. In many cases, LSAT Argumentative Writing samples will be processed within a week of completion. However, test takers are advised to allow up to three weeks for processing before their writing sample can be included in a CAS Report. 

Are the writing samples from LSAT Argumentative Writing scored?

No. LSAT Argumentative Writing samples are not scored . However, you must complete LSAT Argumentative Writing to receive your LSAT score .

Do schools read my writing sample?

Most law schools require an LSAT Argumentative Writing sample as an integral part of their admission decision, and many admission professionals have reported that LSAT Argumentative Writing is useful in their candidate evaluation processes. However, each school follows its own policies on the use of writing samples for admission decisions.

Do all writing samples get reported to the law schools?

No. LSAC will include up to the three most recent reportable writing samples with your law school report. Writing samples are only reportable for five testing years. Writing samples that are more than five years old will not get reported to law schools.

Note that candidates only need to have one reportable writing sample on file for their LSAT to be considered complete.

Once completed, reviewed, and approved, your LSAT Argumentative Writing sample will be shared with you and the law schools to which you have applied.

Can I review my writing sample after I have completed LSAT Argumentative Writing?

Yes. Each test taker will have an opportunity to read their writing sample immediately after completing the test. It is strictly prohibited to take any pictures or screenshots of your completed writing sample, including the “Test Completion” screen. Violation of this policy may result in an LSAT Argumentative Writing cancellation and a referral to the Subcommittee on Misconduct and Irregularities in the Admission Process, as it is strictly prohibited, and you are still in the testing session.

My LSAT Argumentative Writing sample was canceled for a security violation. Does that cancellation get reported to law schools, and what happens next?

In most cases, a canceled writing sample is not reported to law schools. When your LSAT Argumentative Writing is canceled for certain rules violations (such as an unacceptable ID or an incomplete room scan), your eligibility will be reset, and you will have the opportunity to retake LSAT Argumentative Writing.  However, if the cancellation is due to a violation of test security policies (e.g., use of a prohibited electronic device), you may be referred to the Misconduct and Irregularities Subcommittee for further investigation. If the subcommittee representative determines that a preponderance of the evidence shows misconduct or irregularity, then a report of the determination is sent to all law schools to which the individual has applied, subsequently applies, or has matriculated. See Misconduct & Irregularities for further information.

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Redditors discuss most and least helpful study techniques, many teachers report to build their own curricula, but should they, is average academic performance constantly getting worse redditors share their experience, the representation of minority cultures in mainstream media.

Image: freepik.com

The essay example below is crafted to help you with your academic assignments and needs. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, seeking to gather ideas, or wanting to understand the specific structure required for this type of writing, this sample is designed to guide you. Use it as a resource to improve your writing skills and better understand how to approach various essay formats.

The portrayal of minority cultures in mainstream media profoundly shapes public perception and societal attitudes. Media is a powerful tool that influences our understanding of the world, and the way it represents different cultures can either reinforce stereotypes or promote diversity and inclusion. Examining how minority cultures are depicted in various forms of media, including television, film, news, and advertising, reveals both progress and ongoing challenges in achieving fair and accurate representation.

Historically, minority cultures have often been underrepresented or misrepresented in mainstream media. These representations were frequently based on stereotypes, leading to distorted and negative perceptions. For example, African American characters in early American cinema were often depicted as subservient or criminal, reinforcing harmful racial stereotypes. Similarly, Native Americans were frequently portrayed as savages or noble warriors, ignoring the diversity and complexity of their cultures.

These portrayals were not limited to fictional media. News coverage also contributed to the marginalization of minority cultures by focusing disproportionately on negative stories or framing issues in a biased manner. This skewed representation affected public opinion and reinforced societal prejudices, contributing to systemic discrimination and social inequality.

In recent decades, there has been a significant push towards more inclusive and accurate representation of minority cultures in mainstream media. This shift has been driven by advocacy from minority communities, as well as a growing recognition within the media industry of the importance of diversity. One notable example is the increasing presence of minority-led films and television shows that offer nuanced and authentic portrayals of diverse cultures.

Shows like “Black-ish,” “Fresh Off the Boat,” and “Master of None” have been praised for their authentic depictions of African American, Asian American, and Indian American experiences, respectively. These shows tackle issues such as racial identity, cultural heritage, and the immigrant experience, offering audiences a more complex and relatable portrayal of minority cultures. By presenting characters with depth and agency, these programs challenge stereotypes and foster greater understanding and empathy.

The film industry has also made strides in improving representation. Movies like “Black Panther” and “Crazy Rich Asians” have been celebrated not only for their box office success but also for their cultural significance. “Black Panther” features a predominantly African American cast and showcases African culture in a futuristic and empowering context, while “Crazy Rich Asians” highlights the diversity within Asian cultures and challenges the notion of monolithic cultural identities. These films demonstrate that stories centered on minority cultures can be both commercially successful and culturally impactful.

However, despite these advancements, significant challenges remain. One major issue is the continued underrepresentation of certain minority groups. For example, Latinx and Indigenous communities are still often overlooked in mainstream media. When they are represented, it is frequently in limited or stereotypical roles. Latinx characters, for instance, are often depicted as criminals or domestic workers, while Indigenous characters are rarely seen outside of historical contexts.

Additionally, behind-the-scenes representation remains a critical issue. The lack of diversity among writers, directors, and producers can result in a narrow perspective that fails to capture the richness of minority cultures. This lack of representation at the creative level can perpetuate stereotypes and prevent authentic storytelling. Efforts to increase diversity in media production are essential to ensuring that minority voices are heard and their stories are told with authenticity and respect.

Another challenge is the superficial or tokenistic inclusion of minority cultures. While having a diverse cast is important, it is equally crucial that their stories are given depth and significance. Tokenism, where minority characters are included solely to meet diversity quotas without meaningful development, can be damaging. It reinforces the idea that diversity is an obligation rather than a valuable aspect of storytelling. Authentic representation involves creating fully realized characters whose cultural backgrounds are integral to their identities and narratives.

Social media has emerged as a powerful platform for minority communities to challenge misrepresentation and demand better representation in mainstream media. Campaigns like #OscarsSoWhite and #RepresentationMatters have highlighted the lack of diversity in Hollywood and advocated for more inclusive media practices. These movements have brought attention to the systemic barriers faced by minority creators and performers and have spurred conversations about the importance of representation.

Moreover, social media provides a space for minority voices to share their own stories and perspectives, bypassing traditional media gatekeepers. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok have given rise to a new generation of content creators who offer diverse and authentic portrayals of their cultures. These creators have built large followings and influenced mainstream media to take notice and adapt.

Representation of minority cultures in advertising is another area where progress and challenges coexist. Advertisers have increasingly recognized the importance of reflecting the diversity of their audience. Inclusive advertising can resonate with consumers, fostering brand loyalty and reflecting societal values. However, there is a fine line between genuine representation and cultural appropriation or exploitation. Ads that use cultural symbols or practices without understanding or respecting their significance can be offensive and perpetuate stereotypes.

Brands that succeed in authentically representing minority cultures often involve members of those communities in the creative process. For example, Nike’s advertising campaigns have been praised for their inclusive and empowering messages, often featuring athletes from diverse backgrounds and addressing social issues relevant to minority communities. By collaborating with individuals who have lived experiences, brands can create content that resonates more deeply and respectfully with their audience.

Education and awareness are key to improving the representation of minority cultures in mainstream media. Media literacy programs that teach critical thinking skills can help audiences recognize and challenge stereotypes and biases. Encouraging diverse media consumption can also broaden perspectives and foster greater appreciation for different cultures. Schools and universities can play a significant role by incorporating diverse media content into their curricula and promoting discussions about representation.

Furthermore, media organizations must prioritize diversity and inclusion in their hiring practices and decision-making processes. Creating an environment where diverse voices are valued and empowered can lead to more authentic and inclusive storytelling. Mentorship and support programs for minority creatives can help address the systemic barriers that prevent their full participation in the media industry.

Ultimately, fair and accurate representation of minority cultures in mainstream media is not just about diversity for its own sake. It is about recognizing the value of different perspectives and experiences, and the role that media plays in shaping our understanding of the world. Authentic representation can challenge stereotypes, promote empathy, and foster a more inclusive society. By continuing to push for greater diversity and inclusion, we can ensure that all cultures are represented with the respect and dignity they deserve.

One aspect of minority representation in mainstream media that deserves closer examination is the portrayal of gender and sexuality within minority cultures. Historically, media representations have often overlooked the intersectionality of race, gender, and sexuality, resulting in limited and one-dimensional portrayals. For instance, LGBTQ+ characters from minority backgrounds have been largely absent or misrepresented in media, which can perpetuate stigma and marginalization.

Recent years have seen a positive shift in this regard, with more media productions featuring LGBTQ+ characters from diverse cultural backgrounds. Shows like “Pose” have been groundbreaking in their portrayal of the Black and Latinx LGBTQ+ community, particularly focusing on the ballroom culture of the 1980s and 1990s. By highlighting the struggles and triumphs of these communities, “Pose” has not only provided representation but has also educated audiences about a significant yet often overlooked aspect of history.

Similarly, films like “Moonlight” have garnered critical acclaim for their nuanced portrayal of Black masculinity and sexuality. “Moonlight” tells the story of a young Black man coming to terms with his identity and sexuality in a challenging environment. The film’s success demonstrates that there is a demand for stories that explore the complexities of identity within minority cultures, and it has opened doors for more diverse narratives in mainstream cinema.

However, the portrayal of minority cultures in mainstream media is not without its pitfalls. One of the significant challenges is the risk of cultural appropriation. When elements of minority cultures are used without proper understanding or respect, it can lead to misrepresentation and exploitation. Cultural appropriation often strips these elements of their original meaning and context, reducing them to mere trends or exotic spectacles.

For instance, the fashion industry has been criticized for appropriating traditional clothing and symbols from various cultures without acknowledging their significance. Similarly, music and dance forms from minority cultures are often co-opted by mainstream artists, sometimes without giving credit to their origins. This can be particularly damaging as it reinforces the power dynamics where dominant cultures benefit from the creativity and heritage of marginalized communities without recognizing or compensating them.

To address this, it is essential to promote cultural appreciation over appropriation. This involves understanding and respecting the cultural significance of elements being used, giving credit to their origins, and involving members of the cultural community in the creative process. For example, collaborations with cultural consultants and experts can help ensure that representations are accurate and respectful.

Moreover, it is crucial to support media created by members of minority cultures. By providing platforms and opportunities for minority creators to tell their own stories, we can ensure more authentic and diverse representations. Festivals, awards, and funding programs specifically aimed at minority creators can help amplify their voices and encourage the production of diverse media content.

The role of education in improving media representation cannot be overstated. Media literacy programs that emphasize the importance of diversity and teach critical analysis skills can empower audiences to recognize and challenge biased representations. By fostering an informed and critical audience, we can create a demand for more inclusive and respectful media.

In addition to media literacy, diversity training within media organizations is essential. This training should cover the importance of representation, the impact of stereotypes, and strategies for inclusive storytelling. By educating those involved in media production, we can create a more inclusive industry that values and respects cultural diversity.

Another promising development in the representation of minority cultures in mainstream media is the rise of streaming platforms. Services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu have provided a space for diverse stories that might not have found a place in traditional media. These platforms have produced and distributed content that highlights minority cultures, such as “One Day at a Time,” which focuses on a Cuban-American family, and “The Farewell,” which explores the cultural nuances of a Chinese-American family.

Streaming platforms also have the advantage of reaching a global audience, which can promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. By making diverse content accessible to viewers worldwide, these platforms can help break down cultural barriers and foster a more inclusive global media landscape.

The representation of minority cultures in mainstream media is a multifaceted issue that requires ongoing attention and effort. While significant progress has been made, there is still much work to be done to achieve truly inclusive and respectful representation. By promoting diversity in media production, supporting minority creators, fostering media literacy, and addressing cultural appropriation, we can work towards a future where all cultures are represented fairly and authentically.

In conclusion, the portrayal of minority cultures in mainstream media has a profound impact on societal attitudes and public perception. While there have been notable advancements in representation, challenges such as underrepresentation, tokenism, and cultural appropriation persist. Social media and streaming platforms offer new opportunities for minority voices to be heard, but traditional media must also evolve to keep pace. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion in media production and promoting media literacy, we can ensure that all cultures are represented with the respect and dignity they deserve. Through continued efforts, we can create a media landscape that reflects the richness and diversity of the world we live in.

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How Much Longer Can ‘Vote Blue No Matter Who!’ Last?

By Thomas B. Edsall

Mr. Edsall contributes a weekly column from Washington, D.C., on politics, demographics and inequality.

Over the past four decades, the percentage of white Democrats who identify themselves as liberal has more than doubled, growing at a much faster pace than Black or Hispanic Democrats.

In 1984, according to American National Election Studies data, 29.8 percent of white Democrats identified as liberal; by 2020, that percentage grew to 68.5 percent. Over the same period, the percentage of liberals among Black Democrats grew from 19.1 percent to 27.8 percent and among Hispanic Democrats from 18 percent to 41 percent.

This shift raises once again a question that people have been asking since the advent of Reagan Democrats in the 1980s: What does it mean for a party that was once the home of the white working class to become a coalition of relatively comfortable white liberals and less-well-off minority constituencies?

I posed this and other questions to a range of scholars and political strategists, including William Galston , a senior fellow at Brookings, who recently cited similar (though not identical) trends in Gallup data . In an essay last month, “ The Polarization Paradox : Elected Officials and Voters Have Shifted in Opposite Directions,” Galston wrote:

In 1994, white, Black and Hispanic Democrats were equally likely to think of themselves as liberal. But during the next three decades, the share of white Democrats who identify as liberal rose by 37 points, from 26 percent to 63 percent, while Black and Hispanic Democrats rose by less than half as much, to 39 percent and 41 percent, respectively.

Galston argued in an email that Black Democrats have assumed an unanticipated role in the party:

African Americans are now a moderating force within the party. It was no accident that they rallied around the most moderate candidate with a serious chance of winning the nomination in 2020, or that the leader of the pro-Biden forces took the lead in rejecting the “defund the police” slogan.

The coalition of upper-middle-class liberals and minority voters, Galston wrote, “has been sustainable because the former believe in the active use of government to fight disadvantage of various kinds and are willing, within limits, to vote against their economic self-interest.”

Julie Wronski , a political scientist at the University of Mississippi, wrote back by email:

Underlying the liberal shift among white Democrats is their tendency to hold more liberal racial attitudes. In the Voter Study Group’s Racing Apart report, the percentage of white Democrats that hold the most liberal positions on the standard racial resentment measure has increased over the last decade to such a large extent that their racial resentment views match those of Black Democrats.

The Democratic Party, Wronski continued, has become

a coalition of racial minorities (especially Blacks) and whites who are sympathetic to the inequities and challenges faced by minority groups in America. Racial identities and attitudes are the common thread that link wealthier, more educated whites with poorer minority constituencies.

The Democrats’ biracial working-class coalition during the mid-20th century, in Wronski’s view, “was successful because racial issues were off the table.” Once those issues moved front and center, the coalition split: “Simply put, the parties are divided in terms of which portion of the working class they support — the white working class or the poorer minority communities.” The level of educational attainment is the line of demarcation between the two groups of white voters.

By 2020, the white working class — defined by the Federal Reserve of St. Louis as “whites without four-year college degrees” — voted for Donald Trump over Joe Biden, 67 to 32 percent, according to network exit polls . In the 2022 election, white working-class voters backed Republican House candidates at almost the same level, 66 to 32 percent.

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Marjorie Rice’s Secret Pentagons

July 11, 2017

Introduction

In 1975, a San Diego homemaker named Marjorie Rice came across a column in Scientific American about tiling, a problem that has fascinated mathematicians since ancient Greek times. The problem, as Martin Gardner explained in the column, asks which shapes “tile” the plane, locking together with copies of themselves in endless patterns called tessellations. Gardner reported that the classification of all tessellating convex polygons had been completed by a 1968 proof that claimed to have found the remaining convex pentagons that tile the plane.

After Rice’s chance encounter with pentagon tilings, family members often saw her in the kitchen covertly sketching shapes on the tile countertops. “I thought she was just doodling,” her daughter Kathy Rice told me. But Rice, who took only one year of math in high school, was actually discovering new families of tessellating pentagons, and never-before-seen patterns, beyond those listed in Gardner’s column.

Rice died on July 2 at the age of 94. Dementia prevented her from learning that the pentagon tiling story has finally come to a close, decades after Gardner first called it. As I report in Quanta today , a new computer-assisted proof by the French mathematician Michaël Rao establishes that there are precisely 15 families of convex pentagons that tile the plane — including the four that Rice discovered.

Born Marjorie Jeuck in Florida, Rice went to a one-room country school where she skipped two grades and studied with the older kids. Though she loved learning and particularly her brief exposure to math, poverty and cultural norms prevented her family from even considering that she might attend college. In 1945, she married Gilbert Rice, a deeply Christian conscientious objector, and they moved to Washington, D.C., where Gilbert was to work in a military hospital. Marjorie Rice worked for a time as a commercial artist, until the couple moved to San Diego with their infant son. That child died but five other children survived.

For Rice, math was an indulgence. “We were kind of raised with the importance of the Scriptures and studying that way,” Kathy said, “and you didn’t want to waste your time on other endeavors.” Still, Rice read avidly and used her mind “actively, deeply and regularly,” as her son David wrote in an obituary shared among friends and family. “She was fascinated with the golden ratio” and pyramids, he wrote, and studied them “with extensive drawings and calculations.”

Rice gave one of her sons a subscription to Scientific American partly so she could peruse it while the children were at school. When she read Gardner’s column about tiling, as she later recalled in an interview on David Suzuki’s “The Nature of Things” : “I thought, my, that must be wonderful that someone could discover these things which no one had seen before, these beautiful patterns.” She also wrote in an essay , “I became fascinated by the subject and wanted to understand what made each type [of pentagon] unique. Lacking a mathematical background, I developed my own notation system and in a few months discovered a new type.”

Two of the four types of tessellating pentagons that Rice discovered, alongside artworks she created from their tessellations.

Courtesy of Kathy Rice

Astonished and delighted, she sent her work to Gardner, who sent it to Doris Schattschneider, a tiling expert at Moravian College in Pennsylvania. Meanwhile, Rice told no one at home. “My dad had no idea what my mom was doing and discovering,” Kathy said. “He would never have spent hours finding patterns when he thought there were other things that needed our attention.”

Schattschneider confirmed that Rice’s finding was correct. Rice’s approach — the same one taken by Michaël Rao in his new computer-assisted proof — had been to consider the different ways that the corners of a pentagon could possibly come together at vertices of a tiling. “These considerations forced conditions on the angles and sides of the pentagon if it was to tile,” Schattschneider explained in a journal article , “thus giving either a description of a pentagon which could tile in a prescribed manner, or forcing the conclusion that no pentagon could be constructed which satisfied the conditions.” Using this method, Rice eventually found four new tessellating convex pentagons and nearly 60 different tessellations.

Rice declined to lecture on her discoveries, citing shyness, but at Schattschneider’s invitation, she and her husband attended a university mathematics meeting, where she was introduced to the audience. Rice still said nothing of her achievements to her children, but they eventually found out as the accolades mounted. She was interviewed for “The Nature of Things” documentary in 1996, and a tile floor in the lobby of the Mathematical Association of America in Washington exhibits one of her pentagon tessellations. She commemorated her pentagon patterns in Escher-esque paintings. Kathy Rice said: “My mom continued investigating. … When I look in her files, I see octagons and hexagons.”

Other amateurs have also made major tiling discoveries. Richard James III, a software engineer, found a new type of tessellating pentagon in 1975, also after reading Gardner’s column. In 2010, Joan Taylor, an Australian who became fascinated with tiling after a single glimpse at a Penrose tiling in 1990, discovered a strange, multipart tile that tessellates the plane nonperiodically, with a sequence of tile orientations that never repeats.

Rice did it “just for the sake of discovery,” according to her daughter. Nonetheless, “she was happy to get recognized; she was tickled. Here she could find something that other mathematicians had searched for.”

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The Hacker and the Ants Kindle Edition

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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B005UD5QR4
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Running Press Adult; 2nd edition (July 21, 2009)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ July 21, 2009
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Rudy rucker.

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Josh Shapiro's vice presidential prospects spark debate over Israel policy, antisemitism

WASHINGTON – Each of Kamala Harris' potential vice president picks says Israel has a right to exist, defend itself and support a two-state solution. But only one, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, is being singled out and called "Genocide Josh."

Shapiro is one of the leading contenders to serve as Harris' 2024 running mate. He is also Jewish.

As Harris nears a decision, some Democratic voters and organizers are urging her not to choose Shapiro because of concerns about his Israel stance and how he has handled the fallout from the Israel-Hamas war in the United States.

That scrutiny has been met with frustration from Jewish lawmakers and advocacy groups who argue Shapiro is being unfairly singled out because he is Jewish, as all the leading Democratic candidates for vice president have expressed support for Israel.

It comes as Shapiro is increasingly considered Harris’ likely choice for vice president over other contenders like Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly or Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz , at least according to betting markets and chatter over last-minute scheduling changes . It also marks another turn in a political drama over the Middle East conflict that has divided the Democratic party in the lead up to a closely-contested presidential race against Republican nominee Donald Trump.

Shapiro would be the second practicing Jew to run for vice president behind the late Connecticut Sen. Joe Lieberman , who was Al Gore's running mate in 2000. But voters have never elected a Jewish president or vice president in the nation's nearly 250-year history.

The focus on Shapiro is raising red flags for some advocates. Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, said she finds the conversation about Shapiro to be "concerning" and said he has "positions on Israel that largely align with the vast majority of other potential VP candidates."

“There's a lot of important and constructive debate and criticism that should happen around his policies or anyone else's policies” when it comes to Israel or campus protests, she said. But “if it's only the Jewish candidate that is being singled out with terms like ‘Genocide Josh,’ then that is deeply problematic.”

Critics make a case against Shapiro

Like most Democratic public officials, Shapiro has criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu but has supported Israel’s war against Hamas , which invaded Israel last October, killing around 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostages. Israel’s bombing campaign in pursuit of Hamas has devastated Palestinian communities in the Gaza strip, which the Gaza Health Ministry says has led to the death of more than 39,000 people. Leaders from around the world have dubbed the Middle East conflict as a widespread man-made humanitarian crisis.

"We can’t forget the genesis of this, but we also can’t ignore the death and the destruction that’s occurred in Gaza," Shapiro told the Washington Post in March.

But Shapiro’s critics argue he has gone further than the other potential vice presidential picks – including another Jewish contender for the spot, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker – and has other public policy stances that alienate the party's left flank.

They point to his support for the dismissal of University of Pennsylvania president Elizabeth Magill amid campus protests earlier this year; his comments suggesting that people wouldn’t tolerate “people dressed up in KKK outfits” and therefore shouldn’t tolerate campus antisemitism; his support as Pennsylvania attorney general for using an anti-BDS law to end state contracts with Ben & Jerry's for refusing to sell ice cream to Israeli settlements in the West Bank; and an update to the code of conduct for state employees earlier this year that barred “scandalous or disgraceful” behavior, which raised concerns among First Amendment advocates and pro-Palestinian protesters. 

One group has posted a website entitled "No Genocide Josh" that circulates a petition urging Harris to choose a vice presidential candidate who wants "social and economic justice for workers and an immediate ceasefire in Palestine," arguing a different choice is necessary to "win back the trust of disaffected voters" who have felt betrayed by the Biden Administration's support for Israel.

In a statement to USA TODAY, the group said it is a group of Democratic organizers and voters from more than a dozen states, and that its petition gathered almost 1,500 signatures in the first week.

"Many of our organizers, including myself, are Jewish. There was more than one Jewish person under consideration when we launched this effort, and this remains true to this day," a spokesperson for the group said in an email. "However, Shapiro is the only candidate who poses a unique risk to party unity in his willingness to crack down on peaceful protest," support for private school vouchers and alleged connection to scandals .

Shapiro's stance on Israel and pro-Palestinian protests have also been a central focus of multiple essays arguing he would be a poor pick to be the Democratic party's second-in-command.

Defenders say Shapiro faces a double standard

The criticisms don't sit well with some Democratic lawmakers and advocates, who say Shapiro is facing a double standard in a group of other leading contenders who have also expressed support for Israel.

Former Rep. Adam Schiff , running for U.S Senate in California, called it "antisemitic and wrong." Rep. Daniel Goldman , D-N.Y., wrote that those "on the extreme left only attack the Jewish candidate." Rep. Ritchie Torres , D-N.Y., said "every potential nominee for Vice President is pro-Israel. Yet only one, Josh Shapiro, has been singled out by a far-left smear campaign calling him ‘Genocide Josh.’ The reason he is treated differently from the rest? Antisemitism.” Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt praised Torres' message.

"I think there is that sense that somehow we're not objective [on Israel] because we're Jewish, which is just not true or fair," Rep. Greg Landsman, D-Ohio, told Axios . "There are a lot of members who are pro-Israel who have been protested against – I think as Jews it feels particularly intense and personal."

Jewish Voice for Peace, a pro-Palestinian advocacy organization, said on X that the criticism of Shapiro "isn't about his identity, it's about his policies and rhetoric over the years."

Hatem Abudayyeh – chair of the U.S. Palestinian Community Network, which is not advocating for or against any particular vice presidential candidate – said he thinks the focus on Shapiro is because he increasingly appears to be Harris' choice, not because he is Jewish. He argued it's inaccurate to imply that pushing for Palestinian rights is antisemitic.

"There's real antisemitism in this world, and our organization and the vast majority of Palestinian Arab organizations in the United States and around the world condemn that. What we won't allow is for the weaponization of antisemitism accusations," he said.

Shapiro spokesperson Manuel Bonder said in a statement that he has been "forceful in speaking out against hate in whatever form – including antisemitism and Islamophobia – and showing that it has no place here in Pennsylvania." He added that Shapiro "supports Israel and its right to defend itself" and "has also been clear many times that Benjamin Netanyahu is a deeply flawed leader who failed to protect his country on October 7."

Vice presidential pick coming soon

If he's picked as Harris' VP, Shapiro would be only the second Jewish person to be on a major party presidential ticket. His Jewish faith has been central to his identity and to his politics: He met his future wife at a Jewish day school in Philadelphia and proposed to her in Jerusalem, and made his faith a central part of his successful campaign for governor in 2022.

A White House victory in November, should he get picked, means Shapiro also would be the highest ranking Jewish public official in American history. That's a status currently held by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., who has supported the Biden administration's approach to the Israel-Hamas War but publicly urged Israelis to replace Netanyahu .

Harris is expected to name her VP pick by early next week, with interviews planned for this weekend with finalists for the job. Harris' vetting team has already met in private with Shapiro, Walz, Kelly, Pritzker, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, according to reports in POLITICO , Bloomberg and NBC News .

Her campaign plans to tour swing states with their newly-named running mate beginning Tuesday. While Harris' campaign aides caution against reading into location choices, the first stop of that tour will be in Shapiro's backyard of Philadelphia, which is also home to one of the largest and oldest Jewish populations in the U.S.

Contributing: Matthew Rink and Chris Ullery .