Whether affluence will lead to decadence depends on the individual

I am concerned about some of the factors in the Age of Decadence highlighted in the article “Lessons for S’pore on the rise and fall of empires” (Sept 13).

As we live in a commercialised, competitive society, it is understandable that most people are inclined to pursue wealth and comfort.

We notice affluent families sending their children to well-known schools hoping that this could give them a head start and build a strong foundation or social network for their future.

When someone or a family becomes rich owing to hard work, the natural course of action is to try to safeguard that wealth.

This is where, and why, defensiveness kicks in.

Whether or not affluence will lead to moral decline, extravagance, social indifference, division and irresponsibility would depend on the individual’s beliefs and vision.

Nationally, this applies to a country’s leaders too.

With regard to pessimism and frivolity, the authorities and respective communities would be keeping tabs on these factors.

In respect of foreigners, although we are short of talent in some fields, we must be selective so that they can contribute economically and culturally.

Establishing well-defined and stringent assessment and selection processes, and striking a balance in manpower distribution, are the challenges facing the authorities.

I do not think there is a weakening of religion per se in our society, as Singapore treats all the religions fairly. This remains safeguarded and intact.

Of course, we all desire a vibrant, far-sighted, democratic and progressive Singapore with economic prosperity and social stability.