Monday, May 26, 2008
Which is stronger: Laws or culture?
There has been a tremendous controversy brewing the United Kingdom as it struggles with a “Knife Culture”. Youth have latched onto the knife as a way to show dominance and territory, criminals are using knives more aggressively in robbery and murder.
It is very serious. During the past weekend, the out-of-control knife culture claimed the life of Rob Knox, one of the cast members of “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”. The 18-year-old was stabbed outside a bar in London.
The debate has turned into culture versus law. Some claim the only way to control the violence is through legislation. Others say the problem can only be reversed through culture.
History has taught us legislation does not work. With every new law written new outlaws are born.
For any societal negative the positive rests in changing the hearts and minds of the citizenry. When people’s views are changed, they will become societal norms. Education and experience produce stronger, more consistent results than the pen strokes of high-ranking governmental, religious, or business figures.
Baby Boomers throughout the world proclaimed the truth in the 1970s. “You cannot legislate morality.” It was an accurate battle cry that should not be forgotten.
There has been a tremendous controversy brewing the United Kingdom as it struggles with a “Knife Culture”. Youth have latched onto the knife as a way to show dominance and territory, criminals are using knives more aggressively in robbery and murder.It is very serious. During the past weekend, the out-of-control knife culture claimed the life of Rob Knox, one of the cast members of “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”. The 18-year-old was stabbed outside a bar in London.
The debate has turned into culture versus law. Some claim the only way to control the violence is through legislation. Others say the problem can only be reversed through culture.
History has taught us legislation does not work. With every new law written new outlaws are born.
For any societal negative the positive rests in changing the hearts and minds of the citizenry. When people’s views are changed, they will become societal norms. Education and experience produce stronger, more consistent results than the pen strokes of high-ranking governmental, religious, or business figures.
Baby Boomers throughout the world proclaimed the truth in the 1970s. “You cannot legislate morality.” It was an accurate battle cry that should not be forgotten.
Labels: Millennial, News, Parental
¶ 5/26/2008
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Rick, I had not heard this sad news. I am a baby boomer and I must say I agree morality cannot be legislated. In the US we argue over gun laws and tighter controls but no law addresses the weapons obtained illegally. In my 44 years I have seen an increase in laws and a sharp increase in crimes. I believe that we are fighting the wrong battle.
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