Reactions to Social Problems

 

Different people react differently to social problems. The differences may be explained in terms of the following four factors :

 

1. An attitude of unconcern : Many people and the State at times remain indifferent to a problem thinking that it does not affect them. At times their own individual problems like family tensions and job pressures keep them so engaged that they do not find time to be interested in what affects others. It is only when their own interests are involved that they become agitated and start taking interest in the problem. The indifference and passivity of the State only add to the problem further.
   
2. Fatalism : Some people are so fatalistic that they attribute everything to destiny. Issues like poverty and unemployment are also explained in terms of misfortune and past karma . They, therefore, suffer the misfortune quietly and wait for some miracle to happen.
   
3. Vested interests : Some people take no interest in the existing problems because they stand to gain so long as the problem exists. Motivated by self-interest, they describe the problem as insoluble and talk about its eradication as a waste of time.
   
4. Absence of expert knowledge : Some people, though deeply concerned about the problem, do not take much interest in it believing that its solution is impossible unless people change their attitudes and values. As the changes must be initiated by a change in outlook they remain unconcerned about finding alternative possibilities of treatment. Dowry is one such problem in our society.