Social Issues – Page 6

That loneliness is a major problem in city life? How far do you agree?

The city – full of zest, glitz and glamour and all that jazz. It is said to be the pulse of a country and where economic progress is centred at. Amidst all that are its people who create the city as it is, living in six degrees of separation. As life becomes profoundly more mercurial and intricately complex with tectonic shifts, the labyrinth we live in today has robbed most of us, to say the least, of something we yearn for, desire, need, want – creating an empty space that is loneliness. Though loneliness is a major problem in city, it is not necessarily the only problem given the myriad of troubles that plague the world today.

The advent of the internet has enhanced the connectivity between two people regardless of geographical boundaries. It has created various matchmaking and online chatting services that allow people to fall in love without meeting each other prior. A burgeoning number of couples who are dating first got to know each other via online dating services. For instance, Taiwanese author Gladden met his girlfriend of four years via her blog. Matchmaking companies use the internet to find a potential bride for someone. Family members have been able to stay in touch via skype. Thanks to technology, communication has been enhanced that diminish prospect for loneliness to be dominant in one’s life and create a major problem, especially in city life.

As people today adopt a more active lifestyle and are interested to acquire new skills, more are dining out, joining classes and spend a relaxed day somewhere out. This has widened the breadth of interactions between people. Through social interactions, we are able to make new friends that do away with loneliness. Social support systems available such as religious institutions too provide the opportunity for city dwellers to interact with each other. In Singapore, more locals are actively joining marathon (Nike Race – within six days all spots were taken) and taking up speed dating services. One reason for lower loneliness too is that companies these days emphasize corporate social responsibility (CSR) that create a compulsory requirement for employees to do community service. It is refreshing for a city dweller to temporarily take leave from the fast pace, hectic working life that causes one to be caught up with it and lose social interaction that is vital for anyone being.

If one stays connected to world issues, the comprehensive problems that engulf us today, makes loneliness take a back seat. The passionate debate about environmental issues, child trafficking and slow economic growth have wider and grave consequences. Solutions to these problems have not been absolute and abided to as promised which poses a more serious problem than loneliness which has available avenues for one to channel and suppress. In fact, it is these problems that actually proliferated one’s communications with each other. Demonstrators from all over the globe usually come together to protests against something they agree such as protests against the IMF and the negative impact of the capitalist economy. As these people come together for a common course, the similar interest they share, allow one to forget loneliness and feel content to fight for something they believe in with like-minded people. City dwellers, they no longer are, but unrecognized soldiers.

However, though on a majority scale, loneliness may not be a problem, for some it is a significant problem that would pose a major problem to their loved ones. In a city, besides workers, students who live in one have access to various electronic goods that can strip away communication from the world. Point in case – video games. Consumers can become so absorbed in it that at times they forget they are actually living, forgetting their daily routines as they become preoccupied with the games. In Japan, video gamers are known to have died from being obsessed with playing that they forget to blink. It could be because they could be lonely and play such games to negate loneliness, self-immersed in it and worry parents.

Globalisation has sewn the world closer and has seen a greater influx of migrants to cities in hope of a better life by earning higher wages that are used to support their families. The “city-dwellers” would feel loneliness as they are separated from loved ones and do not really know anyone in the place they have migrated to. Moreover, they also do not have the financial means usually to afford electronic goods that allow them to remain in touch with the loved ones. For instance, many Bangladesh, Thai and Chinese workers stay in Singapore in dormitories – evident of their low income to have a comfortable place of their own. While their roommates may transiently erase loneliness, these migrants who live in the city are lonely but do not pose a major problem for a government to interfere.

Loneliness – the feeling of being cut off, alienated and disconnected from the others in an urban environment that thrives on a high standard of living seems to have or inverse relationship between city and loneliness. In view of the majority, it does not pose a major problem in city life but for the minor few whose character may not be appreciated by others or for those who do not speak the same language, do experience loneliness in large volumes, but it is more on a personal level than a national one to be seen as a major problem.

Can patriotism be taught?

Many believe that young people today are less patriotic ~~today~~. They argue that young people view their country more negatively than older generations. ~~They believe that the reason behind this is the younger generation is not taught to respect their country and be patriotic.~~ However, patriotism is an enlarged and extended form of love for one’s country which cannot be forced upon people. One should be patriotic not because they were taught to do so but because an individual considers themselves to be part of the country. Therefore, it can be contended that patriotism cannot be taught to a large extent because only through the citizen’s personal development and experiences will they be willing to sacrifice and contribute to the wellbeing of their country.

In many countries across the world, governments try to integrate patriotism in the educational curriculum. Patriotism is taught in schools by singing the national anthem, repeating the national pledge and even by teaching historical events that happened in the country. ~~However, this association of education with patriotism is not correct as it makes people rigid in their views and opinions.~~ The concept of patriotism is unique to every person and the idea of loving one’s country can differ from one person to another. For some being proud of the military is patriotism and for the others supporting the athletes who are representing the country at international level is patriotism. ~~The aim of drilling patriotism in young people’s mind is ineffective because in using education when we try to integrate patriotism it can also lead to distortion of facts.~~ For example, in countries like Pakistan history text books present a very skewed view of the India-Pakistan partition and war. Therefore, patriotism should not be taught instead young people should be given an opportunity to love and respect their country through personal experiences.

Patriotism through rigid and repetitive exercise can acquaint one with patriotism, but may not fully convince them.

Teaching patriotism does not work because when it is taught the efforts are taken for granted. When patriotism is taught through acts like singing national anthem and holding flags, then patriotism is taken for granted. This is because the true meaning behind patriotism is lost and people do not really understand the sacrifice of the freedom fighters. Patriotism when taught leads people to respect a country only for a moment. This is evident from the fact that in many countries people only celebrate national day or Independence Day like a holiday without understanding the true meaning behind it. The meaning behind patriotism cannot be taught and therefore the efforts of instilling patriotism are futile. Moreover, when people are taught patriotism, they might just follow the trend instead of really respecting or loving the country. Therefore, patriotism should not be taught because it does not truly make a person patriotic.

Patriotism can only be learned through personal experiences and struggles. Patriotism that consists of the experiences people have living in their country can be a life-long learning experience. Only through their experiences, people feel more inclined to love and respect their country. For example, during the Covid19 pandemic, many governments encouraged citizens to buy local products. In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave the call for “vocal for local”. Similarly, French citizens were asked to fulfil their patriotic duty and eat more cheese to help the dairy industry amid the coronavirus. Furthermore, citizens of many countries maintained social distancing and staying at home so that their country can emerge victorious in the battle with coronavirus. Hence, it is not essential for education to teach patriotism. Rather, patriotism is an ideal which has to grow within individuals through experience.

From a practical perspective, young people can be taught about historical events that can build a sense of patriotism and national identity among the youth. The events can also serve as lessons that help in guiding the young into the future. The knowledge of a country’s history can serve as a source of inspiration for people. The organic nature of patriotism can be seen at sports meets and even in cuisine. The Iranians show excessive pride for their wrestling athletes as do the Russians for their gymnasts. Brazilians believe that their soccer team is endowed with supernatural abilities by the soccer Gods, while the New Zealand rugby team proudly perform their Hakka to show strength and pride.

Singaporeans and Malaysians constantly argue over who makes better chicken rice and other hawker food staples like satay and crab curry. In 2014, the Israelis set the record for the largest plate of hummus, cooking some 4,000 kilos of the stuff. A few months later, Lebanon responded with a humongous 10,000-kilo dish. Countries have argued over the origins of the pavlova, kimchi and even cheese. These aspects cannot be taught but are felt in every living fibre of the patriot.

Thus, patriotism cannot be taught through education or by singing the national anthem. It has to develop in individuals voluntarily in order for ideals of patriotism to be deeply rooted. As the world becomes flatter, it is difficult to wave the flag of patriotism as people become more connected through movies, music and even muses. While teaching patriotism can be considered a starting point to imbibe in each citizen the fervour to love their country, the overall nature of patriotism is that it has to be felt, consumed and defended particularly when pride is at stake.

Public figures have to behave well at all times. Do you agree?

The 24×7 media today has placed public figures and celebrities constantly in the public eye. Their every move and action is scrutinized and analysed. This constant analysis of their life has a huge impact on the people who follow and sometimes worship them. Thus, it is fair to say that public figures should behave well most of the time as their actions have the power to influence people particularly when sections of the public look up to them as role models.

Public figures have to behave responsibly because they are accountable for the reputation of the body they represent. In political scenarios, this is extremely true because any misconduct can lead to public distrusting the political party. For example, in the United States, Senator Al Franken had to resign when several women accused him of behaving inappropriately with them. After the allegations surfaced, more than two dozen Democratic senators called on Franken to resign. Similarly, United States politician, Tim Murphy, an outspoken opponent of abortion was revealed to have strongly encouraged his mistress to get an abortion when she became pregnant. This accusation led him to resign from the party he was representing. These examples illustrate how inappropriate behaviour even in private lives can wreak havoc on their credibility and integrity. Public figures should not forget that their actions can have severe consequences as even a small detail can become big news. Thus, it is true that public figures should behave well all the time as their mistakes can damage the reputation of a political party and raise questions about their credibility.

Public figures also need to behave well all the time as they need to develop mutual trust. Successful public figures in the public eye need to build an image that shows they support family values. For example, the duke and duchess of Cambridge are always seen together with their kids. Many believe that the family is the picture of perfection, always upholding royal standards where even their kids have likely never been photographed crying. Despite being royals, their down to earth nature has made them famous among the commoners. On the same note, Leonardo DiCaprio has gained a huge fan following because of his image as a celebrity who takes care of the environment and animals. Even at the Oscars, DiCaprio chose to talk about environmental issues and won the hearts of millions. These examples illustrate how society expects public figures to be worthy and standing for all the right issues. Thus, public figures need to behave well all the time because they need to gain the trust of millions.

Public figures are looked up to by followers as role models and they need to behave well to set a good example. Public figures have a huge influence on people’s behaviour. Many look up to sportspersons, singers and actors as role models and emulate their behaviour. In such a case it is a moral duty of public figures to behave in an appropriate manner all the time so that they can have a positive impact on society. Singer Lorde, for instance, called out a Photoshopped image of herself on Twitter. With the image, she tweeted that it is important to remember that flaws are okay. Through this tweet, she influenced the body-image discussion for the better and promoted body positivity. On the other hand, celebrities like Kim Kardashian have faced severe backlash for selling and promoting products like, Appetite Suppressant Lollipops and have been accused of being a ‘toxic influence’ on youngsters who are impressionable and face the constant pressure of looking a certain way. Public figures need to realise that they have a responsibility towards society, as their followers would want to dress, act, be like them. Therefore, it is necessary for public figures to behave well all the time because they can influence the behaviour and actions of people in society.

In conclusion, it can be said that celebrities should behave well most of the time because their behaviour can have positive and negative impacts. Public figures who seek the benefits of fame must be able to take the downside of public interrogation. Public figures hold huge power and thus are accountable for their behaviour which can negatively influence people around them and society at large. To say a celebrity is not responsible for his or her actions is saying that as human beings, our lives aren’t all somehow connected.

“The Road Less Travelled” (M. Scott Peck) Is being different overrated?

In the modern world, people believe that being unique is a gift. Since a very young age, people are encouraged to be different so that they can achieve greater things in life. On the other hand, there are people who believe that being different is overrated. They argue that society values sameness and being different leads person being excluded and teased by people. Disagreeing with this view it can be said that being different and celebrating people’s uniqueness is not overrated. This is because individuals need to be different so that they can bring unique skills and ideas that can lead to the development of a society. Therefore, being different is not overrated.

When a country chooses to be different than others then it can reap economic benefits. With a changing environment, it is important to be different. Singapore is an example of this. Singapore initially had an entrepot economy but when other countries like Hongkong were adopting the same policy, the country realised the need to be different. Singapore encouraged a diverse economy and free trade, which helped Singapore attract a free flow of foreign investment and multinational giants. Today, the economic development of Singapore is considered to be one of the greatest success stories in history. Furthermore, Singapore has become the only Asian country to achieve a higher per capita gross domestic product than the United States because of its emphasis on diversification and innovation. If the country did not adopt a different economic policy then it would have not achieved the success that it enjoys today. Therefore, being different is not as overrated as in terms of a country it can help it to benefit economically.

Being different also leads to innovation and unique business ideas. Most businessmen who are successful have always been different in their idiosyncrasies. They have strived to create something that is unique and valuable. For example, if Steve Jobs did not have a different business plan and an innovative product to offer it would have not been as successful as it is today. Steve Jobs emphasis on innovation, expanded the company into new areas, including the music industry and redefined the world of mobile phones. Similarly, being unique allows people to come up with innovative solutions. For example, Colonel Sanders adopted the usage of pressure fryer instead of an iron skillet to create a fried chicken recipe that the world enjoys today. If he had not come up with a different approach and idea to change a simple recipe it would not have allowed him to become successful at the age of 74. Thus, being different is necessary is it leads to innovative and creative ideas that can benefit the world.

Being different allows to keep the artistic culture alive in a country. In many rich countries, people are encouraged to take up science and maths as they are considered profitable in the long-term. However, people who are different and follow their passion in the field of arts can benefit society in a unique way. People who work in the arts sector like design, painting, fashion and photography help to keep the culture of a country alive and vibrant. Furthermore, if everyone took up science and maths there would not be enough diversity in the workforce. Moreover, if everyone was a scientist and a mathematician the job market would be saturated which would drive up unemployment. Thus, it is necessary to be different even while selecting careers and take the road that is less travelled as it helps people to succeed.

Some might argue that being different is not always as good as society values sameness. This is true to a certain extent because people are often bullied or treated differently because of their uniqueness. An example of this can be seen across societies where people from different cultures, religions, genders, ethnicities and nationalities are treated differently. There are multiple incidents in schools where children are bullied and teased for being different. Critics argue that being different is overrated because it leads to exclusion and bullying.

However, these differences and discrimination can be a driving force for some to do something different. People who choose to be different in the face of adversity can inspire others to be different. For example, Malala Yousafzai chose to stand for the right of girls to gain an education after the Taliban had banned them from attending school. She was shot in the head but survived the attack and is doing pioneering work for girl’s education. Similarly, Nelson Mandela led the fight against South Africa’s apartheid regime – a system of racial segregation which oppressed the black majority. However, his methods inspired others to go from racism to pluralism without stopping for revenge. Therefore, being different allows people to offer new perspectives, and actions that are instrumental in positively impacting the world.

In conclusion, being different is not overrated to a large extent. Being different is necessary so that the individual can contribute to society in unique ways. Furthermore, if countries are different in their policies then it can lead to the economic and social development of countries. It is true that being different can come with its unique set of challenges however what is needed is to adapt and face the challenges and continue to inspire others.