CHRISTIAN CELEBRITIES: TRUTH AND ILLUSION

Sunday, October 23, 2011 Dr. Frank Robert Silverson


“Reality is not what it is. It consists of the many realities which it can be made into,” says an American poet by name Wallace Stevens. It is against this background that I am moved to pen this piece, as I read some of the stories emerging about what appears to be going on behind the closed doors of an ‘adored’ star. To me, this emphasises the reality of life as against the projected image in the public eye. I thus proceed on my discourse with both sadness as well as an explainable element of expectation, shielding away any feelings of shock.
I have observed what has been happening to our so-called Christian celebrities in the last few years and how they have began resorting to the media to air their grievances as well as spill the beans. This has led to accusations and counter accusations amongst others. Is this the new trend? What would our early Christian leaders have done, faced with the same issues? I guess they would be turning in their graves considering our new found approach to conflict resolution inter alia the use of the media.
Well, let me build a premise for my discourse to ensure my audience can relate to my argument. Recently, celebrity culture has made its way into Christendom at a breathtaking pace. The idolising of human beings endowed with a talent has swept through the fabric of most denominations. This has always been true of secular settings where human beings are deified. Unfortunately, this act seems to be finding its way into the body of Christ. We now have Christian celebrities who both lay claim to this title as well as being bestowed with it by people, in a way that may be deemed questionable considering their call as servants of God.
However, before ranting and raving at these so-called celebrities, it is worth asking an important question. Who has turned these people into the celebrities they are? In saying that, I note that there is confusion between the truth and illusion about who these so-called celebrities are and what is really expected of them.
Truth may be seen as being the actual state of a matter or the conformity with fact or reality, in a way encompassing fidelity to a required standard or law. It may also explain a verified or indisputable fact, proposition or principle. In essence truth embodies an obvious or accepted fact, one that is genuine. The difficulty with stating or perceiving truth comes from the fact that truth itself can be an elusive concept. This is what Ralph Waldo Emerson echoes in a different light when he says that: “Truth is beautiful, without doubt; but so are lies.” Illusion on the other hand, has to do with false appearance or deceptive impression of reality, a false or misleading perception or belief. In psychology, illusion is defined as a perception that is not true to reality, having been altered subjectively in some way in the mind of the perceiver.
The concepts of truth, reality and illusion are very difficult to fully identify. They may be deemed as being impostors or impersonators with each demonstrating an inextricable similitude to the other. This idea is further lent support by Albert Einstein who contends that: “Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one.” In addition, Herman Wouk finds that: “Illusion is an anodyne, bred by the gap between wish and reality.”
Turning to the issue of Christian celebrities, I personally see a celebrity as an ordinary person endowed with an extra-ordinary ability of which virtue may not necessarily be an appendage. What is true is that moral excellence is not a given for any Christian celebrity. No matter how we are made to sometimes feel by these celebrities either by what they sing or preach that moral excellence is an attribute they possess in abundance, the reality on the ground may be somewhat different. Countless stories abound to corroborate this assertion and a quick research should hopefully produce many astounding cases.
Moreover, it is hard to argue whether we are taken in by these celebrities based on what we perceive them to be or what they make us believe them to be. What remains questionable though is how we exalt fellow human beings to levels that are unexplainable simply because of their God-given talent. We have created a culture where we place these people on infallible pedestals hence we find it hard to comprehend their fall. Consequently, we react in shock and dismay when their stories break, forgetting that these are no stories at all. In effect, they are only snippets of reality seeping through the veil of decency and skulduggery that some of these people hide behind. After all, these are people living in one reality which is different from the illusion that taints our view of them. For some of these so-called celebrities, duplicity is an act that requires careful management of which many are gifted with. If it were not so, a lot more stories would emerge.
While not condoning these actions, what we must all realise is that these are human beings subject to the same frailties common to us. The only difference being they live their lives in the public eye. I personally see some similarities between the lives of these celebrities and that of those in the secular arena. Although most of them are perceived as role models, unfortunately, not many live up to that title and expectation.
Furthermore, in the age that we live in, there is so much scrutiny, some justified and others unjustified. Stories about our adored stars make interesting reading and many in the secular world are as equally unforgiving as those in the faith. In a way, the crust of the matter has to be the requisition for us to concentrate on our own lives as we all have a day of reckoning. While some may evade judgement in the present, what awaits us in the future is all-inclusive and inevitable.
For those unfortunate enough to face present judgement, the kinds of comments and remarks left by some readers when stories break are very caustic by all standards. Conversely, Apostle Paul advocates that: “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”(1) Irrespective of the fact that these celebrities have a duty to live up to their profession, we must also show a level of care when responding to breaking stories.
Accordingly, another encouragement from Apostle Paul, places us all on the watch. This he enunciates by stating that: “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.”(2) By this reasoning, one can accept the view that we are all being stalked day-in and day-out by challenging situations as a result of people and circumstances either knowingly or unknowingly working in tandem to present us with tripping opportunities. Under these circumstances, the onus lies on us to examine our own lives and make the required amendments needed.
In a nutshell, this celebrity culture has come to stay and the body of Christ, whether we like it or not would continue to embrace this idea funded mainly by ourselves. What remains essential when such stories break and these revelations are made public is for us not to be overawed, knowing very well that these people are also challenged just as we all are. Such times should provide us with an opportunity for personal reflection while heeding to Apostle Paul’s admonition that: “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”(3)


Dr. Frank Robert Silverson
Email: frsilverson@yahoo.com
Blog: www.franksilverson.blogspot.com

Notes
1. Galatians 6:1, King James Version (KJV)
2. 1 Corinthians 10:12, King James Version (KJV)
3. Philippians 2:12, King James Version (KJV) Emphasis mine





GAMBLING - ADDICTION OR CHOICE (Part 4)

Saturday, October 15, 2011 Dr. Frank Robert Silverson

In this final instalment, I present my opinion on the subject matter and suggest practical solutions for those entangled in the gambling web. I am inclined to believe that you have read through the three previous tranches and arrived at your own conclusion.
Gambling is an ancient vice that has refused to go away. Rather than mankind moving away from this act, we seem to be embracing it in diverse ways. As noted in Part 2, the proliferation of various types of gambling has actually acted as a recruitment bonanza for more gamblers.
The question of whether gambling is a choice or an addiction has taken me on a long journey. I can assert my position based on my own findings despite the fact that I do not expect everyone to subscribe to my view. I am elated though, that my critics would understand my reasoning and respect my views although they may remain entrenched in theirs.
I can argue based on various responses elucidated from numerous people I have spoken to, both gamblers and non-gamblers, that gambling actually begins as a choice and then goes on to become an addiction. Irrespective of the view that there born gamblers, my findings do not support that position. I am quick to add that the choice levels vary from person to person. All people are not the same and the likelihood for one person ending up as a gambler differs from person to person.
I classify three groups of people;
1. Gamblers-by-choice (gbc)
2. Gamblers-by-addiction (gba)
3. Those displaying both symptoms
There are certain characteristics that distinguish the three classes. I must mention that there are times when the first two are not clearly distinguishable in patrons. In classifying these two groups of people, I base my argument on the element of control. For this classification, the term “gamblers-by-choice” is used to represent the group of people who seem to be able to exercise a greater level of control over when, where and how they gamble. They also seem to have control over how much they gamble. Such people find it a lot easier to walk away compared to gamblers-by-addiction. Gamblers-by-addiction are people who have lost their way and will. Their self power and self will to walk away has been eroded over time and they are now being controlled by the gambling, as opposed to the former group.

1.1 Gamblers by choice
I must state here that for those who gamble not because they are addicted but rather just as a choice, they are still at the periphery of the addiction stage. Some people who actually convince themselves that they are only gambling as a choice are not aware of the fact that they are just a stone throw away from becoming addicts. The level of choices that gamblers have differs from person to person. Those who justifiably argue that they are not addicts actually have a stronger will than the average or ordinary gambler does. This suggests to me that although how long a person remains a gambler by choice may be influenced by time, there are those who have defied the argument that the longer you gamble, the more likely it is for you to lose your will and translate from being a gambler-by-choice (gbc) to a gambler-by-addiction (gba).

1.2 Gamblers by addiction
There are people who deceive themselves that they are not gamblers-by-addiction whereas they actually are. They would never agree to the definition of being referred to as addicts. One major factor that has resulted in gamblers-by-addiction is that for a long time, they convinced themselves they were gambling by choice. They overestimated their will power before they realised they were actually gambling to fund an addiction. Some continue to live in denial of this situation. In essence or to reiterate, nobody is born as an addict and like everything, it starts somewhere; usually as a choice and then moves on to become an addiction.

1.3 Those displaying both symptoms
This group of people are usually gamblers-by-choice yet when they find themselves in gambling environments, they transform to being gamblers-by-addiction. Most of these people are usually made up of;
a. Addicts moving away from gambling (recovering addicts)
b. Gamblers-by-choice nearing an addiction
A practical situation of this has to do with, for example, an ex-addict on the road to recovery who occasionally may have a go. He has developed some will power to stay away from the betting shop. Nonetheless, it so happens that an opportunity presents itself to him and he finds himself in a betting shop. Consequently, he goes on to gamble like he used to gamble. He only returns where he once used to be.
On the other hand, someone close to being an addict but not yet one may also fall into this category. Such a person displays symptoms of an addict once in the gambling environment; not able to resist. Such people who may have been viewed as gamblers-by-choice are able to exercise the will power to stay away as much as possible. Nevertheless, the trigger occurs to be pulled once they find themselves in a gambling environment.
In suggesting practical solutions for the issue of gambling, I believe a good understanding of gambling is a good place to start. In Part 2 of this series, I mentioned the lack of understanding as contributing to the reasons why people gamble. Gambleaware.co.uk mentions for example that, “If you spend £1 every week on the Lottery, you would expect to wait about 270,000 years before you win a share of the jackpot”. The house always wins. Nobody is luckier; it is only a false sense of confidence to think otherwise.                 
While the writer does not claim knowledge of all the answers, he attempts to contribute in one way or the other in raising awareness and also giving some practical help to those suffering from the problem of gambling.
Gambling has an effect on time, health, and also strains relationship with family members, amongst others. These challenges include financial hardships like debt or loss of income; personal troubles like stress and anxiety or relationship breakdown, and even legal difficulties where crime becomes the only way to pay off debts. I am thus motivated to offer some suggestions as one statistic suggests that problem gamblers hardly ever seek (for) help. I hope this medium brings some respite/relief to someone in need. The National Health Service (NHS) states that: “There may be as many as 350,000 people identified as problem gamblers in the UK. But among these, it's thought that only about 5% ever seek help, and of those only around 1% receive treatment.”
In a nutshell, this series has explored the subject of gambling from a unique perspective. Fourteen reasons have been given for why people are likely to gamble (Part 2). Fourteen reasons were also suggested as reasons why people refrain (Part 3). These reasons suggest that the subject of gambling is not just a medical condition as some have made it out to be. I suggest the following solutions;
1.    Economic
2.    Medical
3.    Counselling
4.    Association
5.    Image Consciousness
6.    Void filling
7.    Spiritual
8.     Society’s role
To read the full explanation with practical steps please kindly go to GamSol_FRS - http://franksilverson.blogspot.com/p/gamsolfrs.html. I have decided to publish these steps on my blog to give me the opportunity to update and upgrade the level and quality of information on an ongoing basis as new and relevant information becomes available to me.
I am happy to respond to the queries of readers and to grant audience to those who personally wish to discuss the matter. I shall reply to email requests that I receive regarding this pertinent issue.
Dr. Frank Robert Silverson
Email: frsilverson@yahoo.com

TRIBALISM 2: ENGLISH REMAINS KEY

Thursday, October 06, 2011 Dr. Frank Robert Silverson

Following on from my earlier discussion on the subject; “Tribalism: The Keys Work Better Together,” I find a need to support it with this piece. As always, I shall attempt to tackle this sensitive issue with practical circumspection to the best of my ability. Nevertheless, I recognise that with issues of such nature, no matter how much one attempts to be neutral, there are those that would take exception to every argument made. In spite of this fact, I remain unperturbed in my quest to discuss a valid issue like this.

The reasoning for this piece stems from the demand of the La chief last week regarding either the removal of the word ‘Akwaaba’ or the addition of the Ga equivalent at the Kotoka International Airport. I am in two minds about this issue; whether to hastily dismiss this demand as being unnecessary in the context of our development as one people, or whether to see it as an indication of simmering tensions percolating to the surface in a measured manner. This is a dicey issue and I remain ambivalent as to what remains a right choice. Nonetheless, I find that as an advocate of national peace and unity, one cannot always dismiss another’s grievance just because one is not in acquiescence. What helps is that such issues generate a platform to widen the subject to other issues that may be deemed much more relevant. On this occasion and context, I indubitably find that the discussion “ENGLISH REMAINS KEY” becomes ad rem to the subject of tribalism.
Without attempting to give a linguistic lesson which would only detract from the real thrust of this debate, it is worth building a premise for my argument. Language, as defined by the dictionary, may include; a body of words and the systems for their use common to a people who are of the same community or nation, the same geographical area, or the same cultural tradition. It may also refer to communication by voice in the distinctively human manner, using arbitrary sounds in conventional ways with conventional meanings; speech. Additionally, it may define any set or system of such symbols as used in a more or less uniform fashion by a number of people, who are thus enabled to communicate intelligibly with one another. In effect, language serves as a medium of communicating ideas, feelings, as well as concepts, amongst others.
According to Ethnologue, there are a total of 79 languages in Ghana. I find this debatable as there are many variations of languages spoken and an attempt to give an exact number may prove elusive. Of these, the Bureau of Ghana Languages presently operates in eleven Government-sponsored languages namely: Akuapem Twi, Asante Twi, Ewe, Mfantse, Ga, Dangme, Nzema, Dagbani, Dagaare, Gonja and Kasem.
Language remains an important element of every culture and serves not only as a vehicle for communication but also facilitates the propagation and extension of tradition, culture and philosophy of a people. Through language, the oral traditions of a people are bequeathed to future generations ensuring the continuity of a unique people’s culture. Consequently, people display affinity to their language as they derive intrinsic worth and identity from it. In brief, one may observe an inextricable connection between a people and their language further corroborating the essence of language. It is not surprising therefore that Nelson Mandela once remarked that: “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.”
From the above, it remains understandable why some people have called for the scrapping of the English language and for it to be replaced with a new national language. Others have sought to be more temperate in their approach, advocating for the addition of a second national language. To many, this new language could be a totally new one, an existing one or a combination of the former. In contrast, there are those who vociferously adopt the stance that no change is needed and that we should not attempt to fix something that is not necessarily broken.
As explained above, language is very essential and those who advocate a national language justify it on the grounds that it would enable development through enhancing national communication. They even go further to boldly claim that the lack of a common language for official use is responsible for our current state. Others also believe that a national language would make us more united. Furthermore, national pride and identity derivative is what some give as being the concession to the adoption of a new national language. Moreover, proponents of adoption of a national language label contrary arguments as being absurd or dishonest. They also dismiss in a bellicose manner, the notion of its cost or even the nature of our local languages being an impediment to the pace of development in this global village.
So if their reasons are cogent enough, then the ubiquitous question remains why we have not made the changes sought by them till date. I dare ask whether it is because our leaders lack the intrepidity to not only contemplate such but also to move forward to its application. One may further surmise if our leaders’ failure to grant these advocates their much sought desire is simply oblivion to what they (the advocates) perceive as being a palpable benefit to be derived by the nation.
While showing deference to the arguments of the advocates of a national language, I nonetheless find much more plausible reasons for our leaders’ current stance on the matter. It is not by scales of paramnesia that English remains the default national language of Ghana. It is reasonable to suggest that Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, a man ahead of his time and arguably the best leader this nation has had, left us with the English language for vital reasons. I do wonder at times what local language he would have adopted if he had his druthers. Should that have happened, would it not have been a form of vain contest for a successor to subsequently outdo his predecessor by adopting another language that conforms to his tribal affiliation?
There ought to be valid reasons why we continue to use English as our official language. What really makes English a valuable tool is the fact that only a small fraction of the words in the English language are actually words that can be said to be English. The greater majority are borrowed from virtually every language on earth. Dr. G. Manivannan observes the following regarding the English language: “It is spoken by more than 300 million native speakers, and between 400 and 800 million foreign users. It is the official language of air transport and shipping; the leading language of science, technology, computers, and commerce; and a major medium of education, publishing, and international negotiation. For this reason, scholars frequently refer to its latest phase as World English.”
English may be deemed as being more than just a language but also a multipurpose tool. With the breathtaking pace at which the world continues to develop, we continue to edge closer to what may be said to be a borderless world. Such a world would require a universal language which English may lay claim to in a bold manner. In corroborating this position, one may find that some of the most advanced discoveries and inventions in science and technology are made by universities which use English as the medium of instruction. Also, one can observe the use of English in commercial transactions throughout the world further supporting the view that it remains the language for international business management and commerce. Additionally, while facilitating inter-state communication, the English language also boasts a wealth of literature and knowledge enshrined in it.
Based on the foregoing, I shall pause and pose the question of how feasible it is to carry out research to the highest order and level either qualitatively or quantitatively in a local language. I am yet to find conclusive research that supports the view of the ease of such and would be very glad to peruse through such a study. Given the choice of Oxford University or University of Ghana to undertake a Doctorate in a local language, it is not farfetched the choice that many would contemplate.
While others are advancing and embracing much needed change, how justifiable would it be to divert scarce financial resources to fund a project of adopting a new national language? A cost-benefit analysis may render this notion as a non-starter. The time and money needed to carry out a project of such colossal nature should convince many to think twice on the subject. One may see such an exercise as akin to swimming against the tide rather than swimming along. After all, we have more pressing and weightier matters to contend with as a nation.
Even if this notion of a new national language was given attention, which language would be adopted? The fact that one language may lay claim to having hegemony over other languages would not necessarily justify why that language needs to be chosen. This may be construed as that language and identity exercising a preponderant effect over other languages and culture with a support from the state. Given a carte blanche to select a national language, which tribe would not assert its own?
Consequently, my motive for writing a piece like this remains national peace and unity and I find that there is a tendency to alienate one another rather than unite us which would be a reason that may be given for a new national language. It is not unreasonable to argue that adopting one particular language would not quench the flames of tribalism but rather fan it. Fortunately, we have adopted the English language for reasons that can be perceived as fitting. This view is lent further support by Jorge Luis Borges who states that: “In general, every country has the language it deserves.”
In a rather risible admission, Billy Sunday quips: “When the English language gets in my way, I walk over it.” This may be seen in practice at the most unexpected of places. Rather than arguing for the rules to be bent our way so we have our own language as the national language, the onus lies on us to pursue active development of ourselves if we are to remain relevant in a brutally competitive environment.
At this juncture, I shall use this platform to urge the government to address the obstacles that have made the English language a barrier to many. We need to create the right infrastructure to facilitate the learning of the English language in a manner that makes us relevant and competitive on the global stage.
To further mollify the embers of tribalism, the government would do well to avoid elevating any particular local language to national status and prominence. English offers us an opportunity to work and communicate with one together in a peaceful existence while allowing everyone to speak his/her local language without the need to discard it. Moreover, with our increasing quest to become the world’s gateway to West Africa, English offers us the best hope at this.
Though the continuous use of English may not be favoured by those passionately advocating a new national language, the argument espoused here may suggest they have a rethink as our current situation in a changing world supports the view that “ENGLISH REMAINS KEY”.
In conclusion, I shall insert the first four lines from the second stanza of our national anthem that motivates me to write pieces like these. It reads as follows:
“Hail to thy name, O Ghana
To thee we make our solemn vow;
Steadfast to build together
A nation strong in Unity...”

Dr. Frank Robert Silverson
Email: frsilverson@yahoo.com



Relationships: PIG-MENTALITY

Saturday, October 01, 2011 Dr. Frank Robert Silverson

geralt  / pixabay
Benjamin Franklin gets us to a rather placid start for what promises to be an interesting discourse. He states: “I conceive that the great part of the miseries of mankind are brought upon them by false estimates they have made of the value of things.” If this statement can be sustained then it is worth considering the subject for this article.
Pig-mentality as can be deduced from the word is a combination of two words. I have crafted the term to embody a kind of mentality that people have where they neither value what they themselves nor others have. King Solomon, writing in Proverbs 11:22 and Jesus Christ speaking in Matthew 7:6, provide the reasoning for the term ‘pig-mentality’. A closer observation of society should hopefully lend more support to the existence of people with this kind of mentality as well as their ‘victims’.
There appears to be a tendency for people to measure the true value of others not using immediate or discernible value but deprival value. Deprival value in other words may be termed as a form of opportunity cost. An adage corroborates this position by suggesting that one gets to know the value of a thing when it is ‘gone’. The million dollar question that springs to mind is: “Why do we wait to lose something before realising its true value?”
Returning to the statement by King Solomon mentioned above, it reads as follows: “Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman, who shows no discretion, [Proverbs 11:22 NIV]. Jesus Christ further builds on this statement by cautioning that: “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces. [Matthew 7:6 NIV].
The above scriptures lend support to human behaviour as can be seen in existence. The sad observation is that pigs do not value pearls as they lack the true understanding of its use and worth. It may be argued that one would respect something they find valuable and in that frame of events, pigs do not obviously respect pearls. To understand why pigs do not value pearls, one needs to understand their lives. All they are really used to is mud and dirt. It is fair to say that the environment you live in will determine the product you produce. Pigs enjoy dirt as to them it’s their favourite location and that is what they are used to.
geralt  / pixabay
 There are people who subscribe to a dystopian view of life. They see life as so bleak that there is nothing good that it can offer. When you come close to such people, you would be clasping a fist of illusion if you ever expect them to see any good thing in you. Their worldview has tainted their perception about life. From the spectacles through which they view you, you can only expect them to see you in one way. Rather than celebrating you, they tend to tolerate you. How can you possibly expect such people to tell your true value and treat you as such? That is an elusive aspiration to foster.
Proverbs 11:22 likens the behaviour of a fair woman without discretion to a pig’s perception of jewels. The key similitude is that of perception stemming from understanding. To the writer of Proverbs, a woman who is without discretion acts in a particular way because of her lack of perception, the same problem that pigs also have. The pig treats the jewels as worthless, the same way a spouse may treat her other half as worthless. How many spouses are acting without discretion towards their other halves because they lack the right perception of their true value?
A likely outcome of such wrong perception is that it leads to the trampling of jewels under foot. How many people find themselves in relationships where they are trampled under foot by those who purport to love them? The sad thing about life is that at times you wonder why anybody could treat any person like some do. Some beautiful women live in homes where their value has been considered as trash. Other submissive wives have found their adherence to scripture and good nurturing being used against them. They have been turned into something in a disguised form of slaves. In many homes, the stories of many are untold. Some spouses have lost their self-esteem from repeatedly being told and made to feel like they are nothing but worthless and possibly competing with a door mat. Is it not surprising that the jewels that others are desperately seeking are being trampled under foot by some who do not value what they have?
As if the story was not already that bad, it so happens that those suffering from pig-mentality would not only trample you under foot but also “turn and tear you in pieces”. One is likely to leave such a relationship worse off if care is not taken. How many spouses have either been pushed to take their lives or even ended up in mental homes as an effect of pig-mentality? The truth is that people exhibiting the symptoms of pig-mentality would leave you shattered. Even if you manage to escape from that relationship, you would have a long way back trying to regain your self-esteem.
The problem with people who have pig-mentality is not just that they do not value what they have neither valuing what others have but also they are likely to succeed in causing the victims themselves to ultimately believe the lie and possibly accept their ‘depreciating’ value. Dare I then posit the view that pig-mentality is transferrable? Many abusive relationships usually show the effects of pig-mentality. It so happens that the perpetrators of that mentality mostly use the other party and drop them like a stone once they are through with them. Oscar Wilde sees these people as cynics “who know the price of everything and the value of nothing.”
geralt  / pixabay
There are many people in relationships who suffer from the effects of pig-mentality. This is a deep-rooted problem that deserves much effort and time in addressing it. While I am quick to admit that this article does not claim to be a nostrum to such a problem of diverse causes, I do believe that the suggestions proposed here should hopefully point one in the right direction.
In suggesting solutions it is important to look at the issue from two sides; 1) The person with pig-mentality and 2) The one suffering the effects of pig-mentality
It is reasonable to believe that those with this kind of mindset either acquired it knowingly or unknowingly. It is also likely to stem from a very low self-esteem or on the contrary from a self complex which believes that one is superior and the other party in a relationship is inferior. Such a warped view of one’s own self is likely to result in the treatment of the other person in a way that is reprehensible. What further complicates this situation is that some people with pig-mentality do not appear to see anything wrong with the way they behave. To them, it’s just a normal way of life. It so happens that a way for them to revise their view only dawns upon them when they lose what they have. Georges Duhamel supports this view when he argues that: “We do not know the true value of our moments until they have undergone the test of memory.” Counselling should be considered by people with pig-mentality.
Victims of pig-mentality may also need to seek help before it is too late. They may be confronted with the dicey choice of whether to remain in or leave the relationship. That choice can then be astutely made by the victims themselves based on the context of their situation. There is no one size fits all solution here.  William James offers some advice when he says that: “Whenever you're in conflict with someone, there is one factor that can make the difference between damaging your relationship and deepening it. That factor is attitude.”
For such people who choose to remain and hope for a change, it is worth noting what Mark Twain said: “A round man cannot be expected to fit in a square hole right away. He must have time to modify his shape.” Any relationship no matter how bad it is can be worked at, the question that remains is how much time and effort one is willing to invest in it. In closing, it is worth adding that both perpetrators and victims of pig-mentality have a choice to make with attendant consequences.
Dr. Frank Robert Silverson
Email: frsilverson@yahoo.com 

TRIBALISM: THE KEYS WORK BETTER TOGETHER

Saturday, October 01, 2011 Dr. Frank Robert Silverson

I start this article by recounting a quote from an earlier piece of mine titled; Kufuor and Rawlings: Swords and Saints. It reads as follows: “Aside from political parties, some tribes in the country continue to cross swords. The animosity and hatred displayed by some tribes towards others is reprehensible and utterly execrable at worst. The question to ask is whether we are all not Ghanaians. Indeed, tribalism has adversely affected the progress of many a nation leaving the ashes of regret as its invisible remnant and backwardness as its palpable bequest.”
The seriousness of tribalism leads me to focus on this subject matter in an intricate manner. There are those that either deliberately or inadvertently decry the existence of such. This is an issue that exists in society whether we are willing to talk about it or not. I am very saddened to have to open a discourse on a matter of this nature at this point in our history as a nation. Some of the comments that are left by readers on popular websites lay claim to the existence of such a canker that needs to be addressed or ameliorated to any extent possible.
Aside from the politicking that goes on when discussions come up, some people cannot refrain from taking a swipe at other tribes. Such detract from giving any relevant contribution to subjects at the fore and rather blithely proceed on a tribal smear campaign with all importunity and impunity.
Without getting into arguments of whether or not there are tribes in Ghana, my focus here moves the discussion to consider pragmatic reasons for unity rather than dabbling in a verbose academic discourse with no corresponding advancement to our shared cause. My cardinal motive is to draw attention to a subtle canker and suggest ways of amelioration.
Sociologists view ethnocentrism as the belief in the inherent superiority of one's own ethnic group or culture or group to which one belongs, often accompanied by feelings of dislike for other groups. It may also refer to the tendency to view alien groups or cultures from the perspective of one's own. Tribalism may be deemed as the state of existing as a separate tribe or tribes; the customs and beliefs of a tribal society or loyalty to a tribe or tribal values. Additionally, ethnic groups consist of individuals who are bound together, often closely, by a shared cultural structure and sense of ethnic identity. Consequently, the individual persistently uses membership in the ethnic group as a primary criterion in the formation of relationships with others, and in evaluating or making judgments concerning other individuals.
Writing in the “Gallery of Gold Coast Celebrities", Dr. I. S. Ephson notes Dr. James Emmanuel Kwegyir Aggrey (1875 - 1927) as an apostle of inter-racial co-operation who advocated and helped to cut the path of progress for the African race in many fields, particularly in the direction of Religion, Education, and Agriculture. He further records that co-operation was Aggrey's ideal which he expressed by his example of Piano Keys:  "You can play a tune of sorts on the black keys, and you can play a tune of sorts on the white keys, but for harmony you must use both the black and the white." Dr. Ephson further writes that Dr Kwegyir Aggrey saw true co-operation as involving “a certain measure of equality - equality of opportunity, if not of actual political status.  It means that each side has something to contribute - something more than brain on one side, brain on the other - to the well-being of both". This is what provides the thrust for this piece: The keys work better together.
A nation builder made such a profound observation many years ago. Today, we continue to fight amongst ourselves with some tribes having a sense of superiority to other tribes and forgetting that every tribe has something to offer. It is so sad that when we travel outside the country we complain of racism and yet return home only to pursue ethnocentrism. How we vacillate from crying victim to turning the victimizer depending on where we find ourselves!
Throughout history when nations could have advanced working together as a team, some tribes sought to treat others as a lower ‘caste’, oppressing and dominating them to the ruin of that very nation. This led Saint Augustine to conclude that: “By faithfulness [to our cause as a nation] we are collected and wound up into unity within ourselves, whereas we had been scattered abroad in multiplicity.”
The story of the Hutus and Tutsis is not a farfetched example. This resulted in what has been termed as Africa's largest genocide in modern times. The visible effects of tribal conflicts can also be seen in South Sudan as well as Yemen to name a few.
In fact, we need to grow up! Ethnocentrism and cultural parochialism is a pathetic state to find ourselves in. Can one region form a country? Are we not economically interdependent? Despite the tacit restraint to avoid marital alliances with other tribes, are Gas not married to Fantes, Ashantis to Ewes, Northerners to Southerners and Easterners to Westerners? As Mattie Stepanek discovered: “Unity is strength... [and that] when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved.”  With seeming quiet, are we not making some progress as a nation?
I disagree with Bertrand Russell’s notion that “Order, unity, and continuity are human inventions, just as truly as catalogues and encyclopaedias’”, rather, I find more support for national advancement in Hans Kung’s view that: “We are convinced of the fundamental unity of the human family.”
Does it mean we should lose our ethnic values to the extent that we lose our identity? Probably not! However, yes, if it conflicts with our quest for advancement as a nation. Richard Baxter supports this view when he says: “Unity in things Necessary, Liberty in things Unnecessary, and Charity in all.” From his statement, love for one another is cardinal as we forge ahead as one people (Ghanaians).
We should heed to Bill McCartney when he says that we should: “...build a highway for healing and unity.” After all, we all stand to lose should tribalism rear up its ugly head and gnaw away the fragile covering of peace we enjoy. To all those who continue to fan tensions either in an overt or covert manner, you would serve us all well to desist from such practices. Remember also that “Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured.” That is Mark Twain’s advice to all harbouring negative thoughts for other tribes that would only put a break on our progress as a nation.
As I bring this piece to an end, I cannot help but to repeat a line from Camille Pissarro’s reflection: “At fifty, that is in, 1880 I formulated the idea of unity, without being able to render it. At sixty, I am beginning to see the possibility of rendering it.” I remain optimistic that with continuing advancement and education, we would gradually see ourselves more as Ghanaians (one people) with our cardinal allegiance to Ghana rather than the tribe we come from.
 
Dr. Frank Robert Silverson
Email: frsilverson@yahoo.com

UNMASKING THE REAL CULPRIT: JUSTICE FOR THE SEXUALLY HARASSED

Saturday, October 01, 2011 Dr. Frank Robert Silverson

There are issues that some would rather sweep under the carpet than confront head on. I realise the sensitivity of this subject and hence, would be cautious in my analysis of issues. My language and usual style of writing would be varied to target a much wider audience. It is only time that would justify this effort as worthwhile or otherwise.

Our collective view on sexual harassment has been changing over the years. It is reasonable to believe that in any case, more needs to be done. To suggest that nothing has been achieved in the last few years would be a sign of being economical with the truth. If this article gets us talking about issues through the creation of awareness, then I believe the effort invested has proved meaningful.
I commend all who have taken various steps to address this issue. While lauding other writers who have written on the subject matter, I shall also use this platform to add my voice in further championing the need for rapid change. Although I do not believe that this article would bring an end to an age-old problem, I am encouraged that it may help a victim to seek help while possibly deterring some would-be culprits.
From my readings, I found different definitions given for the term “sexual harassment”, some narrow, and others equally broad. To make sure my audience understand the premise for my argument, I shall adopt the definition given by the UN Women’s Watch which reads that sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
The point that needs to be made here is that sexual harassment, although predominantly carried out by men, has recently seen an increasing number of women being guilty of the same. In today’s society, one can observe the old and young, rich or poor, literate and illiterate and even the believing and unbelieving perpetrating this act. Whereas usually the harasser may appear to have a form of power or authority over his/her victim, the absence of such does not preclude the occurrence of the act.
The effects on victims are multitudinous in nature and may include, amongst others, physical, professional, academic, financial and social as well as psychological and health consequences.
When faced with the effects of sexual harassment, most victims are confronted with the serious choice of remaining silent or seeking redress in the public eye.  This can be likened to finding one’s self between the devil and the deep blue sea or being between a rock and a hard place. It is a tricky choice to either come out and speak about the issue or suffer in silence. Helen Watson, a sociologist, sums the costs to the victim when she argues that: “Facing up to the crime and having to deal with it in public is probably worse than suffering in silence. I found it to be a lot worse than the harassment itself.” It so happens that some choose to move on quietly rather than talk about it. Who can blame the harassed for choosing the former option?
Considering that retaliation and backlash against victims are very commonplace, those who complain risk hostility and isolation from colleagues, friends and even family members, amongst others. It is not strange to assume that such people may even team up to protect not only the harasser, but the name of the family or institution as a means of damage control. I wonder how many families would want to have their names dragged into the mud by giving harassers up. The adage that says “never wash your dirty linen in public” remains a very potent force providing shelter to such harassers. Such a situation although thriving on conventional wisdom makes it very difficult to address the issue.
Having said this, it is worthwhile to pause and address an issue that further compounds the problem of sexual harassment. This has to do with those who accuse others falsely or lie about a supposed abuse either to extort money or embark on a smear campaign. Unfortunately, this leaves untold distress on the falsely accused who may spend much time and effort in clearing their names to little or no avail. Another factor that has further complicated the problem of sexual harassment is the hasty presumption of guilt before a fair trial. Furthermore, there has been a shift of the burden of proof from the accuser to the accused.
However, the fact remains that there are people who have been sexually harassed in one way or the other. It is a shameful observation that rather than bringing such to justice, our society sometimes shelters people who commit such crimes. The question then is: “How are we going to move on...?”
Erich Fromm perceives that: “As we ascend the social ladder, viciousness wears a thicker mask.” We find that some in society use the mask of power, money, status, reputation and titles, amongst others, to get away with crimes that the ordinary man would not get away with. There are some who have hidden behind such masks to repeatedly offend with impunity. These people usually have a well-crafted image of respect and restraint that rivals a saint’s but changes into one of viciousness when alone with their target. This makes Thomas Dekker right when he says that: “A mask of gold hides all deformities.”
The advice from this piece to such ‘powerful’ people who habitually offend with impunity lent by their ‘mask’ would be for them to reconsider their actions. One day their cups would be full. Probably they can consider what Kevyn Aucoin says: “Life is too short to spend hoping that the perfectly arched eyebrow or hottest new lip shade will mask an ugly heart.”
For the victims who have had to go through such a difficult time, you may consider counselling as an option. If you are still facing the effects of a past harassment, you may want to seek medical or psychological or even spiritual help. This might do you more good than hiding in the dark shade of disgrace and reproach.
While I am totally against any form of sexual harassment, I would advise that people exercise caution in their dealings with others so as not to be deemed as being suggestive or to be mistakenly construed as a consenting or willing party. Additionally, provocative dressing should be avoided as it could wrongly be seen as being an invitation to harass.
Parents need to keep a watchful eye as young children cannot usually be accused of inviting would-be harassers. By creating an atmosphere of trust in the home, such acts against children would hopefully be nipped in the bud. Furthermore, education on matters of such nature should be intensified both at home and school to help curb this menace. All in all, everyone needs to exercise a good dose of common sense to avoid the likelihood of victimization.
Finally, we all have a role to play, whether as individuals, government, churches, schools, employers etc. Everybody can contribute in ensuring that we all live, work and worship in an environment devoid of sexual harassment. Unless we come together as a collective force and send the strongest message to these culprits that there is no place for such behaviour, this canker would worsen. As Victor Hugo notes, “Virtue has a veil, vice a mask”, so let us get the masks off the culprits and give much needed justice to the sexually harassed. 

Dr. Frank Robert Silverson
Email: frsilverson@yahoo.com

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