Human beings are a wonderful creation with exceptional qualities. They are set apart from other creatures by their intellect and communication skills. Every person has certain responsibilities towards the society they live in, and the most basic quality they should have is a commitment to their fellow beings. It is humanitarian consideration shown to others that distinguishes humans from other living beings.
Showing preference or consideration to a less fortunate fellow being is the first step of humanism. Today, however, people have become more and more self-centred in every respect. They are concerned only with satisfying their own needs. Even the value of the family is disintegrating. Everyone wants a luxurious lifestyle, and as a result, human emotions are no longer valued. Only a materialistic approach is appreciated in today’s society.
The world is advancing with the latest technologies, which have become indispensable to modern life. At the same time, the number of people in underdeveloped countries who cannot afford even one meal a day is rising faster than technology is developing. A quarter of the money spent on wars and entertainment could easily eradicate poverty from the face of the earth. True humanism means providing the basic essentials of food, shelter and clothing to those who deserve them.
Another important aspect of humanism is good education. Only through proper education can a person of good character be shaped. A person of good character is committed to the society they live in. They know their responsibilities towards their fellow beings and understand their needs.
Humanism is not merely a word to be preached; it is a word to be put into practice. Its objectives and motives are wide and deep, aimed solely at the benefit and welfare of the human race. That is why humanism is attracting more and more attention today.
The views expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Lahore Times.
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