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20-11-2010, 11:08 AM
To reply to Arthur,
Yes in fact I agree that many scholars are living in so-called "Ivory Towers", where they argue over theories and concepts which are far removed from what is actually happening on the ground. Like what you say, they may be academically intelligent but are unable to translate this intelligence to solve the bread and butter issues on the ground. Hence, this results in a disconnect between the "elite" and the man on the street. As a result, resentment brews as the man on the street feels helpless and it's as if these scholars are being "overpaid" to perpetuate problems, rather than solve them.
I guess the problem of not speaking up has become endemic in our society, as witnessed by the numerous cases of foreigners who have been sued or jailed for voicing out their opinions. The most recent case which needs no further mentioning is that of Alan Shadrake. This creates a climate of fear and gives the impression that the Government does not and will not tolerate dissenting views, no matter how well they may contribute to nation-building and improving the welfare of the common citizen. This is why we see so few real "arguments" within this thread, even though many view. Incidentally, this occurs at opposition rallies as well - throngs of people turn up to watch and cheer, but when it is time to vote, the incumbent party still gets 66.67% of the votes.
Indeed, the reason why the Government is "importing" so many foreigners is due to the dearth of good and creative ideas from our own citizens. Sadly, the problem seems to be one of policy, and so it is unlikely we can stop this "brain drain" anytime soon as more and more disillusioned citizens leave our shores for greener overseas pastures.
Yes in fact I agree that many scholars are living in so-called "Ivory Towers", where they argue over theories and concepts which are far removed from what is actually happening on the ground. Like what you say, they may be academically intelligent but are unable to translate this intelligence to solve the bread and butter issues on the ground. Hence, this results in a disconnect between the "elite" and the man on the street. As a result, resentment brews as the man on the street feels helpless and it's as if these scholars are being "overpaid" to perpetuate problems, rather than solve them.
I guess the problem of not speaking up has become endemic in our society, as witnessed by the numerous cases of foreigners who have been sued or jailed for voicing out their opinions. The most recent case which needs no further mentioning is that of Alan Shadrake. This creates a climate of fear and gives the impression that the Government does not and will not tolerate dissenting views, no matter how well they may contribute to nation-building and improving the welfare of the common citizen. This is why we see so few real "arguments" within this thread, even though many view. Incidentally, this occurs at opposition rallies as well - throngs of people turn up to watch and cheer, but when it is time to vote, the incumbent party still gets 66.67% of the votes.
Indeed, the reason why the Government is "importing" so many foreigners is due to the dearth of good and creative ideas from our own citizens. Sadly, the problem seems to be one of policy, and so it is unlikely we can stop this "brain drain" anytime soon as more and more disillusioned citizens leave our shores for greener overseas pastures.
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