Very good points 12dn and justmyo!
12dn, your points about parenting and teaching made me visualize the military as another arena in which pledging/hazing is sanctioned.
And Justmyo, I agree with your views on spite. I do remember a time, however, when "pledging" was totally exclusive from "hazing."
I think that what now separates BGLOs from other areas of society where "pledging" is endorsed is "purpose." In many ways, we have lost our direction. Many are compelled to join only to step, chant, wear a t-shirt, and turn out next year's Greek Show, only to never be seen again shortly after graduation. Some of us are the ultimate groupies--we only aspire to rub elbows with fame, rather than partake in the creation and maintenance. Whereas people are able to agree with forms of "hazing" in education, military, etc. for a noble "purpose," they see little place for similar activities on a greek level.
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