How Humane Are We -By Olabooye Mariam Olamide

There is a big difference between human being and being humane; a human being refers to a member of the species “Homo sapiens” that differs from most animals by the high standard of psychological development, power of speaking fluently, way of sitting and standing. Humans are considered as superior to other living beings mainly due to their higher intelligence and are capable of accomplishing so much more. For instance, the creation of societies, culture, both material and non material, such skills and supreme mental capacities can only be witnessed in humans.

What is humane?

The word humane refers to showing kindness and concern towards others. Being humane towards others, both animals and people, is a quality that needs to be developed in the modern world. Humane qualities are compassion, helpful gestures but seems to be disappearing. Although there are billions of humans in the world. It is rare to find a human being who is compassionate, well-meaning and caring by birth. Being humane is a virtue. Acquiring any virtue takes many years of hard work to practice, since the world is highly characterized by constant irrelevant and violent events.

Throughout the time, humans have learned about the environment around them, built empires; expansive business areas. But, has all this work been able to alleviate human suffering and in the world? The immense power acquired by humans has bought envy, destruction to human nature. Lets not forget, kind people are also here but the number of cruel people in the world is more than those of the kind people.

Why is it that the rich people are always in higher positions while the poor are denied the opportunity of being in that position because it is now seen as a norm like that’s where they belong? We can see the success of such rich, famous and ruthless people at every level of our society due to the exploitation of the poor. Conscience doesn’t work for anyone, even though human beings are the best creatures of creation, there is not the slightest bit of love and affection. People pretend to be kind but cruel and filled with hatred inside.

Today, people are more concerned about themselves. The world is filled with greed, cruelty, jealousy etc. Some becomes proud because of the wealth acquired and become obsessed the money and fame. Imagine firing long-term employees just to save a few Naira while making billions yourself, giving out doesn’t really exist anymore.

Kindness is a sign of greatness. It’s being selfless, compassionate and caring. There is no harm in becoming rich, but if we are kind hearted, we will definitely take others along. The needy and less-privileged people of the society should be uplifted so that they can enjoy the same standard of living which they deserve. This responsibility is towards the society, nation and family.