Although there may have been times before when humanity has found itself in confusion, today’s confusion is probably worse. Everyone may be pointing double fingers at others, but ultimately, we are all complicit. For instance, the electorate complains about politicians not fulfilling their promises, yet they keep voting the same people into power year after year.

Politicians, on the other hand, wield their power ruthlessly when the electorate protests to hold them accountable. Of course, the electorate has the right to hold those they voted to serve to account. Some of those they vote into power may really want to serve and make a difference. Still, they eventually become stifled because, once in power, they realise there are many players in how things work, and that not everyone really cares about the masses.

Some may even think that, as much as they entrust their wishes in the hands of those they vote for, the ones they vote to represent them may as well succumb to the power and agenda of the unelected global entities. 

Moreover, humanity lost it all when meritocracy got thrown out of the window. The moment we started giving participation awards even to the worst performer was the right step in the wrong direction. Lowering the standard across the board to cave to the emotions of a few in the name of inclusion is what sets humanity on the right path to self-deception and destruction. 

The issue of meritocracy has evidently eroded society’s welfare to the point that even mediocre leadership is revered. Political associations would nominate the most unqualified person to the most key position, yet come around to complain about the lack of progress instead of addressing the elephant in the room and demanding meritocracy.

To top it off, it is incredible to see how selective today’s society is when it comes to calling out the wrong or defending those who may be publicly attacked. 

This can be seen in how we react to naming-and-shaming videos on social media. One would see that society has been conditioned and drawn into the position of selective empathy depending on the social position of those involved. If one is popular or holds a position of influence, responses and reactions are positive, but the opposite when it is an unpopular or unknown person. 

This clearly indicates just how low we stooped as people. The truth is, we can talk all we want about how badly we have degenerated as people and a society. It may seem not very easy to resolve, but it is really that simple. There is no need for workshops, seminars, or protests. 

All it requires is for everyone to sit down, look within ourselves, and reflect on our complicity in what our society has become. In the end, it really just boils down to the number one principle that separate humans from other species, that we treat others the way we would want to be treated.

*Uncommon Sense is published in the New Era with contributions from Karlos Naimwhaka. YouTube channel: Karlos Lokos. – karlsimbumusic@gmail.com