"Too much emphasis is placed on role models. Instead of copying others, people should

[ruchia]

132. "Too much emphasis is placed on role models. Instead of copying others, people should learn to think and act independently and thus make the choices that are best for them."

 

 

Decision making should be followed by a thought process that includes all the choices and interests. People should not blindly follow the foot steps of the role models but they should certainly look for an inspiration and guidance. Moreover, people should also think that the principles of the role models and the path taken by them may not be relevant in the present times.

 

 

In universities and colleges, freshmen start considering an outstanding senior as their role model. As they progress towards junior year, they bear in mind the path taken by the senior as the only path to success. However, that path might not be true for all. Instead the juniors should think independently, consider their own interests, options, difficulties/ uncertainties in those options and hence devise their own career path. All this while, they should definitely consult the senior for advice and guidance. Moreover, they should also consider their abilities and weaknesses with the senior. The senior may be very good at management, represented the school at various occasion and hence went for a MBA. However, the junior might be really good at technical skills and hence should consider a PhD. This way, the junior will be sure of what he/she is doing and what he/she wants to achieve.

 

 

Similarly, political leaders do have some ideals but they should not follow them blindly. They should think independently about the current society and its needs and then try to relate what ideals of earlier leaders are relevant and applicable. For example, many Indian political leaders consider Mahatma Gandhi as their soul ideal. He led the country in very difficult times, was a great freedom fighter and worshiper of non-violence. However, many of his principles may not be valid today. During the last decade, there was huge violence and turbulence over the Kashmir issue between India and Pakistan. The country could not avoid the Kargil war in 1999. However, if the country had stood steadfast on Gandhi’s principles, it would have undergone a huge lose. However, since the situation is peaceful today and the country has extended a hand of friendship towards Pakistan. Hence, the leaders of the country need to think about the current situation, realize the demands of the nation in the present times and hence, make decisions that are best for the nation in current times.

 

 

To conclude, I agree with the author’s statement that people need to think independently about their choices, interests, demand of the present situation, and hence make a sound decision. They should definitely look up to the role models for inspiration and guidance but should not follow them blindly.