Hoodlums and poverty

Hoodlums and poverty

From Gatra

The authorities have been trying to curb hoodlum activity around the country, a move much hailed by society at large. Many people want the complete removal of this "predator" species from Indonesian soil.

However, if we look into the matter more deeply, their existence is not extraordinary. All men are basically clean at birth. When some of them grow up to become sadistic and cruel hoodlums that resort to violence and brutality, we must regard it as a social disease. And believe me, even among hoodlums we can still find atoms of love and purity in them.

Then why do hoodlums exist? One of the major causes is poverty. It is undeniable that poverty breeds criminality. Research reveals that poverty is the cause of criminality. Only a few cases of criminality are triggered by vengeance. As the Greek philosopher Aristotle said: "Poverty may lead to criminality and rebellion." Another philosopher said: "Man's gold is the source of many crimes."

The wider the social gap, the lower the people's morale becomes. There is an absolute truth in the opinions of the these two philosophers. Thieves, pick-pockets and other criminals are abundant where a social gap exists.

If we really want to abolish crime and hoodlums, we must first and foremost eradicate poverty and narrow the social gap. We must consider social equity. Also we should live a modest life and create a sense of social solidarity regardless of ethnic origin, religious beliefs, etc.

ERWIN

Bandar Lampung