February 11, 2007

SINGAPORE

The Societal and Cultural Approach of Singapore

While I should have been studying for tomorrow's Materials Science examination, I spent the morning conducting an interview with a journalist from NTU’s school newspaper. The topic was why Westerns are eager to speak up in classroom environments while Asians (particularly the Chinese) are more inclined to remain quiet.

This is a subject I have explored in the past (Hong Kong), but Singapore is a unique place that deserves an analysis of its own. Rather than focusing on the academic aspect of Singapore I will break down the cultural and societal aspects of the country as I believe it is more insightful.

To begin with, one must understand that Singapore is the most ordered society on earth. The reason is simple: Singapore is also the most designed country on earth. The government has orchestrated the way they want everything to run, and the populace is left to decide which role they wish to fulfill. As for individuality and breaking from the norm, it is obvious that a well-oiled machine only works when each part is functioning as it was designed to. I have often felt like Singapore is the nation equivalent of a highly evolved gated community where the society has been expertly planned to be self-sufficient.

This is not to say that the average person is raised as a mindless drone incapable of independent thought because this is far from the case. The people are highly intelligent, highly perceptive, and highly motivated. However, the opportunities are limited and there is a strong set of boundary conditions that inhibit maneuverability.

When I talk about boundary conditions and maneuverability here is what I mean: Singapore is great at everything it does, but it is likewise restricted by the need to be great at everything it does. One is not encouraged to break from the norm or even take risks. It is deemed wiser to rely on the safe bet and to do it better than the competition.

None of this is meant as criticism toward the country because the growth, sustainability, and lifestyle are a lesson for us all - especially considering the scarce resources and logistical hindrances. However, Singapore may find itself constantly following industry rather than using its enormous talents to lead industry.

Simply speaking, Singapore may do things better than everyone else, but they will rarely do it first.

**I hope I do not receive too many angry emails from my Singaporean friends (I may change my contact email to avoid nasty viruses), but this has been my impression thus far. And for the record, I really am in love with everything Singapore.**