Why is human life so cheap in the developing world and valued in the developed world?
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One possible explanation is that because we are so many, therefore, a loss of one or two lives becomes immaterial. While this argument defies logic, a certain faction tends to believe this as gospel truth and practicality. Such views coming from the educated elite in India is all the more appalling.
Three recent cases point to the dignity of human lives in India, one of the most populous countries of the world.
The first case is of a
The second relates to the death of a 'farmer' in a political rally where the people, media, and the politicians stood as mute spectators looking on without stopping the individual performing the act. The PM speaking on the issue in
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These cases point to a deeper malaise on our part as a society. The first case reminds one of the Orwellian dystopia in his 'Animal Farm'- that all animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others. What is tragic is we have indeed come to accept this as practicality. The second case points to the lack on our part as a society in understanding the value of human life and our apathy towards fellow citizens. The third case points to general callous and risky behavior on our part on roads that result in loss of lives.
All these make one wonder what is the value of a human life of a common citizen in India? Does a common person feel completely safe and secure in his country? And if not who is to be held responsible and accountable? For the first question, the three cases seem to suggest it is miniscule. For the second question, few people if at all do feel completely safe and secure. Finally, when it comes to accountability we as people are equally responsible for the failings of successive governments and institutions in creating a safe and secure society. While it is important to envision economic ideals and to improve the
(Dr. Amit Kapoor is
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