Man’s Inhumanity to Man

The news on another hazing fatality in Quezon City involving a 25-year old Criminology student at the Philippine College of Criminology brings back the old controversy of how this inhuman and illegal practice in social organizations can be addressed. The necessity of strengthening the enforcement of the Anti-hazing Law, Republic Act 11053 comes to the fore again, and perhaps a more comprehensive approach to resolving the issue once and for all. Organizations that are found guilty of this illegal practice should be held accountable, and University or College campus policies on hazing must be strongly and consistently enforced.

Awareness campaigns should be conducted on this demeaning and degrading initiation ritual imposed upon new recruits by members of an organization. The myth that it fosters bonding and solidarity among members is arguable, considering that these actions can cause not only physical injuries but also emotional trauma and long-term psychological damage for those who endure them. It is also a violation of dignity and human rights, both in the legal and human sense. Non-violent initiation and bonding activities must instead be encouraged by school authorities, and leadership development activities in school organizations conducted. Dealing with the issue should also involve conducting research on why this rite of passage seems to be so appealing to young people.

Succinctly put, hazing in organizations highlights the capacity of individuals, groups and societies to commit acts of violence, oppression, brutality and injustice against one another. It is no different at all from perpetuating the history of war and conflict in our world today.

QUOTATION OF THE WEEK:

“Man’s inhumanity to man makes countless thousands mourn” - ROBERT BURNS

FOR OUR WORD OF LIFE:

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” - 1 PETER 2:9