Think freely to prosper

Re: “Western folly in Middle East quagmire”, (Opinion, Nov 27).

Thitinan’s Pongsudhirak’s analysis of the situation in the Middle East is very insightful. Sheikdom and tribalism has been an integral part of the history of the region, but we are now in the age of internet, where people are using an array of social networks to instantly communicate and share ideas with the rest of the world. In this new century the majority of youth in the Middle East are exposed to Western ideas, music, films, fashion and current lifestyle trends. They may be stranded in authoritarian regimes but are eager to bring change. These days religions and ideologies only attract the hardliners, fanatics, the marginalised and disfranchised groups. There are many reasons for the current crisis in the Middle East, and not all are caused by the West. Religious conflicts and disunity among Arab nations is one of the main causes.

There is no doubt that democracy is not a suitable solution for every region or nation. It has taken more than five decades for Myanmar to get started. Only time will tell what may happen next. Thailand keeps on swinging like a pendulum. No one is sure what sort of country it will be after 2017. Democracy is also not just about votes and elections; it is about human rights, human dignity, rule of law, equality, justice, freedom of thinking and expression. Democracy is therefore also very difficult to cultivate. It has been proven that freedom of thinking automatically leads to enhanced creativity, research, innovation and prosperity. There is nothing like a challenge to bring out the best in people and it shows when we live in a free society.

KULDEEP NAGI