Herzlia incident highlights community divisions

Albert Glass, Cape Town

In my humble upbringing, I learnt at home and as a pupil at Herzlia the phenomenon called derech eretz (right and wrong). A time to toe the line on certain occasions, and a time to express opposing opinions on others. And that upbringing I have continued throughout my life, be it at home with my family, in my professional practice, or in the community. There are times one must show respect for others or society in general, and there are opportunities when one can/should express one’s opinion for or against an issue.

The action of the two pupils, regrettably, shows the silos that exist in the community. The family and its inculcating values should feed into the school silo. This did not appear to work. Then, the school silo with its mandate to educate and shape young minds to think and be aware, but retain derech eretz in the actions of tomorrow’s adults came under severe pressure. And then the community silo, which should continue the cycle for the future in its relationship with its fellow citizens wherever they may be also came unstuck.

We are our own worst enemies!