Quote:
Originally Posted by socalmarci
... I have to admit that I kind of like the idea of hazing.
Now, that's not to say that I like all forms of hazing; but I do believe there can be some useful applications of hazing. Personally, I like the idea of being put through something possibly uncomfortable or unpleasant to earn something I consider of value. I mean take military boot camp for example, some of the sh!t that takes place is considered hazing; but it's not without purpose. I think that a fraternity or sorority who puts new members through similar types of rigor could build some strong characteristics and bonding in their initiates; so long as there is a true and legitimate higher purpose.
Ultimately, many hazing rituals can be viewed as symbolic references to life experiences. Sometimes life 'hits' you, and if you're a punk then life is going to F you up, but if you can learn to take those 'hits' and still continue on with what you've set out to accomplish there's value in that.
I would like to have a set of fairly hardcore rituals and exercises specifically geared toward preparing initiates for tough conditions that may arise during their college tenure and early stages of their professional careers, even their personal lives and relationships; all that are fun, stressful, painful, tiring, emotional, embarrassing, motivating, and inspiring. Maybe some people will get hurt, maybe some people will want to drop-out, maybe some people will have emotional breakdowns, but in the end their brothers are 100% committed to everyone making it through and being better because of it, and they will love each other for it. Is that so wrong? Am I just crazy? Is this just some fantasy I have conjured up in my head? I don't think so, I think there can be 'responsible hazing'.
PS - I'm not greek (yet), but I plan on pledging when I transfer from CC.
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It is not a wise idea to hand over the mental health of a group of 17-19 year old students to a group of 18-23 year old students and expect them to "educate" them in ways that are psychologically sound. Military training has lots of oversight. Drill sergeants are older members of the military who are trained to be drill sergeants and who have other drill sergeants and officers looking over their shoulders. That isn't going to happen on a college campus. Furthermore, we're not really looking for the type of conformity or obedience in our members that the military needs in theirs. We want leaders, not foot soldiers.
If you allow even mild hazing, some one is going to take it too far, and a student will get hurt or die. It's a terrible idea.