Write a letter to the editor of a popular newspaper giving your view on some superstition
Answers
Anurag Kamal,
Thiruvananthapuram
Superstition continues to rule the lives of people, as such beliefs are closely linked to faith in god. It is against this that one must consider how scientists and rationalists have been endeavouring to spread the message of science in their own limited spheres. But their efforts are like drops in an ocean. Larger efforts by the State or humongous social movements are required to eradicate superstitious practices. For example, practices such as sati were not eradicated by ‘persuasion’ but due to the enormous efforts put in by social reformers and ultimately by legislation. ‘Persuasion’ is an excellent tool, but is limited in its scope and reach. Finally, educationists and governments must ensure that people are suitably educated to develop scientific temper and rational thinking. Childhood is the best period to sow the seeds of scientific thinking and to develop reasoning. The media has a great role to play in this regard as its reach in this technological age is unlimited.
Aditya
Hyderabad