THE POWER OF ENLIGHTMENT OVER ENFORCEMENT

Life is better lived when people have understanding of the benefits and risks posed by certain involvement or engagement rather than the use of force or compellation. Also, it is good to appreciate the fact that we all see things differently and everyone's choices must be respected, hence, the reason why the government of nations clearly set age boundaries to differentiate a child from an adult e.g. 18 years in Nigeria. Many human practices or engagements tends to pose risk of developing ill-health and hence, detrimental to the body with examples such as taking alcohol, smoking and so on. Of a truth, some of these dangerous substances already has a disclaimer on them about the possible effect even with age limit on it, but it still finds it way and thriving.

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Imposition of hefty tax on such items may seems good but this on the long run ia not the best solution because it can only reduce the purchasing power of few people or the quantity been consumed but yet, still engaging in it. I believe that a rather better approach is the power of enlightment which can be intensified as people can act in ignorance or deliberately in knowledge to do the wrong things as it pleases. Even with enlightenment, i still respect human choice because it is very possible by choice to walk into danger headlong having been warned or informed of such. However, i still believe that it is still better to inform people and enlighten them on the health, economic, societal and other effects that engaging in some of these things may impact.

Knowledge they say is power and there is this thing in we humans that resist been compelled or forced to do something rather than been voluntarily done in good understanding. I believe that more can be done in the aspect of sensitisation and enlightenment at all levels even with the use of modern technology but the ultimate choice still remains with each person to make sound decisions for themselves. I believe once people understand that our exposure to some substance can lead to developing certain health conditions with infallible proofs and evidences, this may go ahead to convince some people to have a rethink and a change of mind unto a change of attitude.

Therefore, proven facts, evidences, convincing proofs which when packaged together as enlightenment campaigns rather than just moral or persuasive words of the mouth i believe will go along way to change the minds of many unto making a wholesome decision as regards their health or well-being in view of smoking or taking alcohol. Also, the place of rehabilitation will be an added advantage for as many that wanted to quit or cease from such which can form part of the enlightenment as many who would want to do so don't even know how to go about it. In all, enligthment empowers while enforcement produces rigidity as i believe. Thanks so much for reading even as comments and contributions are welcomed.

This is my entry to @Hivelearners weekly featured contents, week 164 episode 03 on "Healthy Tax" Thumbnail designed using Canva.