"Code of the Street"

Paper Summary:

This paper examines "Code of the streets" by Elijah Anderson, which presents a look into the world of inner-city life in Philadelphia and the vast social, drug and economic problems that plague those who grow up and live there. The paper focuses on several chapters of the book that deal with the definition of "decent" families and "street" families and the reasoning behind the significant increase in "street" families and the decline in "decent" families. The paper shows how Anderson offers a look inside the lives of inner-city dwellers that portrays the sense of urgency for today's children who are struggling to thrive.

From the Paper:

"In the first chapter of "Code of the Streets", Anderson gives the reader a sociological definition of what represents a "decent" family and a "street" family, while also providing several personal stories by individuals and their families who shared characteristics at both ends of the spectrum. It was an intriguing look into the complexity of the two worlds which were ultimately always interconnected because of the continuous conflict that took place with one another. The decent family was described by Anderson as one that incorporates, "responsibility, morals, good judgment, and hard work", to help keep the family together so they may never have to turn to drugs, but instead to always have a goal in life. I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Marge and her successful, yet constant struggle, to raise five children while keeping them off the street and drugs. I especially liked the story off Yvette and her immediate family's constant effort to protect her while growing up."

More papers on "Code of the Street":

• Book Review # 98733 : "The Code of the Street"
• Analytical Essay # 133452 : "Anderson's "Code of the Street"
• Book Review # 118995 : "Code of the Street"
• Book Review # 93891 : "Code of the Street" by Elijah Anderson"

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