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Print Edition> Forum
UPDATED: October 29, 2012 NO. 44 NOVEMBER 1, 2012
A Virtue or an Obligation?
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Fu Cheng (City Evening News): Surrendering seats to those in need is an extra care for the weak, but it is not stipulated in laws. The proper attitude to take is: praise those who participate, but don't blame those who do not. However, most people tend to go extreme on this issue.

The most important thing is for all people to first mind their own behavior.

Li Kejie (Chengdu Business Daily): In the past, not contributing a seat to others did not result in open scolding. But now, if the young do not offer their seats, they are at risk of assault from angry passengers.

Undoubtedly, the passengers who slap others have a conflict between moral obligations and legal obligations. In this case, they think young people must contribute their seats as a legal obligation. If young people refuse, they must be punished. With this in mind, certain people become indignant and want to attack those who do not offer them seats. Nevertheless, offering seats is not a legal obligation, so you can only expect people to do so by their own will, and not through violence.

Offering one's seats to others is a virtue that should be greatly encouraged, but we cannot force this on the young. It is a selfish practice to hurt others just because they do not conform to your moral code.

Qiu Yun (www.shipingjie.net): If the couple had asked politely whether they could have the seat, this conflict could have been avoided. Even if the youth was healthy and did not have a leg injury, the husband of the couple should not have resorted to violence. His action was even more offensive. If you want others to treat you with respect, you must first learn to treat others kindly. It is better to show kindness and ask politely when you want to take a seat.

Dear Readers,

"Forum" is a column that provides a space for varying perspectives on contemporary Chinese society. We invite you to submit personal viewpoints on past and current topics (in either English or Chinese).

Email us at: zanjifang@bjreview.com

Please provide your name and address along with your comments.

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