I believe in personal responsibility. People should be held accountable for their actions. What brought this on? In two words – rugby league.
During the last year numerous rugby league players have hit the headlines for misbehaving at after match functions. The offences include fighting, drink driving and alleged rape. In most cases, copious amounts of alcohol are involved. The latest incident, where the player was so drunk he can’t remember what he did, involved alleged rape. I think it’s terrible that public figures (who many youngsters look up to) behave in this manner. In some cases the players are young, in their early twenties, receiving big money. The money and fame goes to their heads. The culture in some clubs is that of partying and alcohol, and this doesn’t exactly set a good example.
Some of the public are calling for an alcohol ban. They’re saying all players should be banned from drinking alcohol during the playing season. It’s a stupid idea. Firstly, how are they intending to police the rule? If someone wants a drink during personal time, they should be able to have a drink. I want to know what has happened to personal responsibility? Each player has a responsibility to behave in an acceptable manner. Yes, clubs shouldn’t encourage a drinking culture, but it’s up to each player to behave in the correct manner. They’re professionals and should behave that way.
In another example, New Zealand has a bad record in child abuse. Last year a law was passed, and it’s now illegal to smack a child. I definitely don’t agree with abuse, but I also think this law was a knee-jerk reaction to a problem. It certainly hasn’t made a difference. Since the law was passed we’ve had two or three horrific cases of child abuse.
I believe in personal responsibility. What say you?
