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[LETTERS to the editor]We are our poor kin’s keepers

Published: 12 Nov. 2008, 21:05

The editorial “Hardship and random crimes” [Oct. 22] suggested that we need official measures to support people who feel isolated. I agree, and want to add that not only the government but also the people have to be involved in trying to solve the problem.

First of all, we have to find the root causes. Broken families, financial trouble and unemployment generally drive the perpetrators of these crimes to rage, depression and frustration. They explode from accumulated stresses, desensitized and imitating the violence purveyed in mass media and online games.

Who is responsible for the crimes? Of course, the criminals are, but our society cannot be free of responsibility. In our system where the rich get richer and the poor get poorer, cutthroat competition and self-centered lifestyles could cause the crimes. Educational neglect about moral and ethical values could also contribute.

We have to deeply consider solutions in all aspects. The government must make policies for the unprivileged so that they can lead better lives. The intelligentsia - lawmakers, medical professionals, educational and religious leaders, and economists - should discuss solutions and play their part to curb this fast growing disease. Each one of us should care for the needy.

We cannot expect a secure society where there is a big gap between the rich and the poor. If we don’t make prompt efforts to build a balanced society, we will face more shocking and frightening incidents.

D.S. Kim