Nobonita Chowdhury
With the recent events happening around the world, it is only natural that we be prepared for the worst. The only way to reduce terrorism is to ensure that we ourselves don’t unknowingly indulge in it. I know this sounds impossible, but after seeing the profiles of the terrorists accused of the Gulshan attack incident, I’ve begun to think that we should at least take the best precautionary steps possible. May the world become a better place in the future.
1)Don’t believe everything the media says:
The media is the ultimate source of brainwashing. Before just blatantly believing what the media says, do your research. Ask questions. Don’t share a Facebook post without knowing anything about it. As Albert Einstein had once said:
“Science without religion is lame, religion without science is blind.” Here science can also be portrayed as knowledge or just basic morality. No matter what others say, don’t do anything that goes against your basic morality.
2)It’s okay to question authority:
The main values of a particular authority initially comes from one individual. Sure, authority is needed to maintain order. But the trick is to know whether it is the right kind of order. Let’s say: would you want your government to be a real life version of Orwell’s 1984? (If you haven’t read the book, READ IT) It would only be natural to oppose authority in that case. Don’t let anyone’s messed up ideas influence you, even if it is a Catholic school or something.
3)Surveys always serve an agenda:
No matter how genuine it may seem, surveys ALWAYS seem to serve an agenda. Even if the source is credible. Do your own thinking before completely believing something a survey says.
4)Confidence is the key:
People are always attracted to people who radiate confidence. Remain confident so that other people can’t easily sway you; but at the same time don’t be swayed by the wrong kind of confidence. Draw your own conclusions based on credible information.
5)Know your friends and family:
As the Gulshan attack incident has shown, terrorist thoughts can sprout from anywhere. Be careful of who you mingle with. If you find someone’s thoughts and conversations angling towards extremism, be aware of that. Don’t completely ignore them, but don’t let their ideas influence you as well. If anything, voice your concerns to someone you trust wholeheartedly, such as your parents. That way they’re aware of the situation as well. Should anything happen, they can help you out.
Aside from all that, just stay safe folks. We’re going through some terrible times. Star Kebab has become a safer place to eat than five star hotels and high end restaurants. Let that sink in for a moment.