Rethinking Social Change: The Need for Systemic Reform and Collective Responsibility

By Zohara Nasreen, New Age Islam 28 December 2024 In Indian society, we often hear the idea that one should not focus on the system, but instead work on self-improvement, under the belief that if an individual improves, society will improve as well. However, this view is flawed when human societies are structured on incorrect principles, leading to a society plagued by classism, selfishness, greed, and individualism, built on unjust foundations. In such a context, the idea that individuals alone can bring about social change by simply improving themselves is not sufficient. Education plays a crucial role in shaping the moral and ethical character of individuals. Alongside education, the cultivation of ethical values is an essential component. However, when the education system is divided between the masses and the elite—where the general public is taught obedience to authority, and the elite are trained in governance, leadership, and control from a young age—it creates a society where, instead of fostering the spirit of equality and freedom, individuals are conditioned to bow before those in power. Instead of collective progress, individualism becomes dominant. Consider the example of two children: one grows up with the mindset of securing a job, while the other is raised with a sense of leadership, governance, and the belief that others are meant to serve them. The first child will see themselves as a contributor to society, while the second will view themselves as a ruler. In such circumstances, the lower class, which forms the majority, may remain sincere, but the policies that govern the country will be made by the elite—those who are trained to think in terms of power and control. Will they create policies that bridge the gap between the masses and the elite? Everywhere the elite class enjoys separate healthcare, education, and living conditions. The privileged few have access to facilities and services in a ratio of 1:99, where the majority of the population has limited access to even basic necessities. Will the elite class, who have enjoyed these luxuries for decades, be willing to relinquish them and provide the basic social services and necessities that could improve the lives of the general public? When looking at social issues, we must recognize that poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities are not just individual problems, but systemic issues. These cannot be addressed by individual efforts alone. For instance, when a boat is sinking, it is not enough for only one person to bail out water while others stand idly by. It is crucial for everyone to act together, as collective effort is the only way to ensure survival. Society is about cooperation, and the problems of society belong to everyone, not just one individual. What is my problem today could be someone else’s problem tomorrow. When one part of our body hurts, the entire body suffers. This analogy reflects the truth that when one segment of society is oppressed or disadvantaged, the entire society feels the pain. Hunger, for instance, is a social issue. If one person tries to tackle it on their own, they will soon find it overwhelming and may give up. However, if the government takes action, it has the resources, legal authority, and systems to find a sustainable solution. Similarly, addressing other critical issues such as education, healthcare, employment, law and order, and poverty is the responsibility of the state. A collective system must take on the duty of solving these societal problems. In the modern world, the most developed and progressive nations have systems in place that ensure that social problems are addressed from a collective perspective. These nations are well-versed in their history and the functioning of their systems. They do not have separate systems for different classes or an approach that makes everything accessible to some while excluding others. In such societies, class divisions are not tolerated, and everyone is provided with equal opportunities. This is the kind of society that should be the goal of every nation. In India, where the gaps between the elite and the masses are vast, the need for systemic reform has never been more urgent. We, especially the youth, must critically examine different systems—capitalism, socialism, and others—and understand how these systems address the issues of inequality and poverty. By comparing our current system with those of other nations, we can identify potential solutions to the challenges our society faces. It is crucial that we foster a sense of collective responsibility to solve our nation's problems, ensuring that no one is left behind. It is not enough for individuals to focus solely on self-improvement; the system itself must be transformed to create a society where every citizen has access to the basic rights and opportunities necessary for their well-being. Only then will we see true progress and equity in our country. ---- Zohra Nasreen is a Delhi-based freelance writer. She has earned her Master's degree in Political Science from Jamia Millia Islamia. Currently, she is preparing for the UPSC exams while also teaching students at her home. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/rethinking-social-systemic-reform-responsibility/d/134164 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism