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We should not let social class stratify us

I refer to the report, “Survey points to social class divide among Singaporeans” (Dec 28).

A TODAY reader says unwittingly or not, Singaporeans have become more class-conscious. "It is as if one’s dwelling and material possessions make the person worthy of our continued acquaintance." Photo illustration: Nina Strehl/Unsplash.com

A TODAY reader says unwittingly or not, Singaporeans have become more class-conscious. "It is as if one’s dwelling and material possessions make the person worthy of our continued acquaintance." Photo illustration: Nina Strehl/Unsplash.com

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Lee Teck Chuan

I refer to the report, “Survey points to social class divide among Singaporeans” (Dec 28).

“Where do you live?” or “Where did you park your car?” are questions often posed by acquaintances we have just met. These are probably ways to size one up and determine one’s social standing or class. How one is treated sometimes depends on how one stacks up in the eyes of those who ask those questions.

Unwittingly or not, Singaporeans have become more class-conscious. It is as if one’s dwelling and material possessions make the person worthy of our continued acquaintance.

Otherwise, we tend to mingle with those who are more like us. Children grow up thinking that others are much like them, and are oblivious to those with different backgrounds and ways of life.

While we have been sensitive to race and religion matters and not allowed these to divide us as a people, we should also not let social class stratify us. Envy of those who have what we do not have will surely weaken our social fabric.

We should create occasions for people from different walks of life to mix and mingle. Our attachment to each other and this country can only come about through common experiences.

In the pioneering years when people were poorer, they forged ahead towards a common goal. Despite having less materially, they were determined to better their lot and set aside their differences.

As we prospered, our aspirations diverged. Equal opportunities do not lead to equal outcomes. Some prospered more than others, and there will always be those who fall behind.

Our social system should help those who have fallen behind to level up. Equal opportunities through education and income distribution will give the less privileged some hope to better their lot, while being careful not to diminish personal efforts through welfarism.

The income gap between the rich and poor cannot be so glaring that it creates social tension among the people, such that a perceived sense of unfairness permeates society. The rich cannot scorn that they are “doubling up” for the poor and the poor cannot feel “condemned” to serve the rich.

In times of crisis, it really takes all — regardless of race, language, religion or class — to defend our way of life.

 

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