Society’s Symbols

Hand gestures are a common aspect in modern society. Used to communicate and add detail to conversations, these gestures are very beneficial. Though there is one particular gesture that has grown to be a symbol of disrespect. Viewing this symbol is inevitable, and you have probably seen it while in traffic, or even while with friends. This obscene icon has grown to be taboo in American society, and despite its simplicity, has the uncanny ability to express all of one’s aggravated emotions efficiently. Creating an impact wherever it is seen, the middle finger has been, and will continue to be an infamous symbol in American culture.

The middle finger is merely the third finger on a human hand, yet it represents contempt to those it is shown to. It expresses harsh feelings, and is common to see, for using it is as easy as lifting a finger-literally. When observing what the symbol really is, it is perplexing why something so simple could possibly affect society in such a strong way. How could something so trivial be so notorious? Something so small be so great? The answer is society.

The same society that dubbed the thumb a symbol of approval, and the first two fingers a peace sign, is the one responsible for the negative connotations behind the middle finger. From the first person who flashed the finger, to the millions that just did by the end of this sentence, society has always decided how the finger, and any symbol for that matter, would affect them. For this reason, symbols are quite obscure. So while two fingers may symbolize peace, and the spectrum of colors caused from refracted sunlight may somehow represent homosexuality, the middle finger will always continue to be an offensive symbol in American culture.