I dislike the word rebel, simply because of the angsty way it's often used, so I would posit that I am more of an independent in that I believe in the autonomy of people as conscious, sentient beings.
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I agree. I think the word rebel does give off a very negative atmosphere, and is almost an insult to be called it (well, depending on the individual receiving it)
But, for most people when they think of rebel they imagine this person who defies society by burning down buildings, taking violence, and protesting. I view "rebel" more as an individual making their own choices in life. I'm a teenager (I hate using that word to describe myself as of the stereotypical response received from it, probably not from this forum but in life...) and I think we are given the name rebellious as of a way to keep us in the same state of mind we previously were as a child. As a kid, we are told from day one what and how to think, having faith it is truth. Yet, as we mature we realize that others' opinions are mere guesses a lot of the time as well. We [teenagers] want to take in as much info. as possible so that we can make our own decisions on it, or outlook on life.
Many people dismiss our ideas as being "hormonal", or out of "ignorance". Yet I'm sure at least some teenagers have a better view on life than adults, as it's still at the age of taking in info as I mentioned. Adults
usually (not all) have their mind made up, but teenagers see all view points and determine which is most meaningful to he/she. (most) Rebellion for me, is just a way of trying to get closer to your standpoint. Of course, I am talking of rebelllion in a way of expressing new ideas, not burning down buildings to "bring down the man". Yet, if a teenager sees the "man" is corrupt doesn't he/she have just as much right to protest as any adult does? Face the consequences, good or bad, but at least try to make change for what they believe in?
I am not the kind to rebel to do homework or sit in class and do nothing to show someone "I can do what I want" as even though you do have this right, it is only hurting you as nothing is accomplished. Rebellion can be ignorant based on the intentions. I do feel like a silent rebel inside a lot of the time. Yet, I don't act out on my thoughts. I hate going through my day at school and just life, hearing everyone's ideas and keeping silent as they throw their thoughts into my head, thinking they are pointing me in the right direction. They may be, but it's still my choosing. Maybe adults feel they need to give their viewpoints, thinking we are easily brainwashed, and nieve. The only problem with this is that because I'm INTP, I am not like the average teen. So, therefore, I don't know how the intelligence level or mindset of most teenagers is at this age. Just the other day in a class discussion my teacher actually asked us if we actually think. Just think. Sit in your room with no sound and
think. She said it as though it was a new concept, as if it was so extremely rare, the class look dumbfounded (did I mention i'm in honors classes?) I was shocked, I assumed everyone thought like I do. I take solitary walks, I sit on my porch alone, I sit in my room, everywhere I go I think. A lot of times interpretively, analytically, etc. So, just this realization and truth brought to me showed me a lot about how I compare to my fellow classmates and age group (I'm not trying to aggrandize myself in any way) so, based on my mindset, being rebellious is nothing more than actually questioning others, to make your own decisions, and breaking free from the clasp of an adult's hand as they walk beside you, as so many others follow for life. (This was probably too long, I babble too much!
) A lot like Agent Intellect said
