In "Hidden Intellectualism", Gerald Graff argues that events in society can be interpreted as microcosms of American ideals and flaws. For example, sport has been part of civilization for centuries, transforming into much more than just competition. It has become a symbol of a country's culture, ethics and hope. Perhaps no other sport brings this kind of symbolism more than boxing. Because the purity of boxing relates to the nature of a blank canvas; variables such as pitch, team and equipment will not influence the result. Only the confrontation between two men in which only their perseverance will decide their fate. As a result, the athletes in this ring can easily be seen as a symbolic representation of something larger. Famous fighters such as Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson appear throughout history, influencing society's opinions and shaping what it is today. In the article "What's in a Name? Muhammad Ali and the Politics of Cultural Identity", Amir Saeed discusses Ali's influence towards non-white communities and allows himself to become a catalyst for other rights movements civilians in America and around the world. On the other hand, in his work "All the Rage: As He Storms Toward His Showdown With Lennon Lewis, Is Mike Tyson the Ultimate Psycho Celebrity in the Midst of a Public Breakdown - or the Shrewdest Self-Promoter in Boxing History?" Richard Hoffer describes Tyson's infamous life as a former boxer and his involvement in criminal acts. Both fighters influenced society in different ways. Ali showed the black community how to be proud, strong and confident in influencing society while Tyson did the opposite, he allowed himself to be influenced by society, becoming a popular figure for inappropriate civility. ...... When viewed as a microcosm of American ideals and flaws, boxing can be seen in a different perspective. The fighters in the ring represent more than themselves. As a result, they influence the people around them and ultimately the entire society. However, in some cases, society itself can shape and influence the individual by creating an entertainment persona, similar to Mike Tyson. Becoming a figure in society will have different effects. If that individual possesses qualities that exceed society's expectations, it will be recognized by society and will influence him. On the other hand, if the individual is seen as a weak and selfish person, society will manipulate him. Ali became a symbol of independence and individualism while Tyson became a proud figure driven by anger turning into a source of entertainment for society..