Laws are created with the intention of protecting the greater good and ensuring the well-being of the society as a whole. Yet one aspect to consider in this argument most importantly is the balance between individual rights and collective welfare.
Conformity within a legal framework is an essential element of any functioning society. It refers to individuals adhering to the laws, rules and regulations set by the government or governing bodies for the overall well-being of that society. Nevertheless, this may require individuals to conform to certain behaviors or restrictions that they might not necessarily agree with or consider beneficial for themselves.
While conformity can be seen as necessary for maintaining social order, it also raises important societal questions as follows: ‘To what extent should individuals be expected to conform to laws that they may perceive as limiting their personal freedoms or conflicting with their values?’
On the one hand, conformity plays a crucial role in maintaining social cohesion, stability and order. Laws provide a framework that ensures a level playing field for everyone. They establish boundaries and expectations for behavior, which fosters predictability and reduces conflicts. Conformity to these laws helps prevent chaos, protect individual rights, and promote justice.
On the other hand, conformity within a legal framework can sometimes suppress innovation and creativity. When individuals are bound by strict laws and regulations, they may be discouraged from thinking outside the box or challenging the status quo. This can hinder progress and prevent society from evolving and adapting to changing circumstances.
However, it is important to distinguish between conformity to just laws and conformity to unjust laws. Throughout history, numerous social movements have emerged to challenge unjust laws or systems that violated basic human rights. Examples include the civil rights movement in the United States, women’s suffrage movements globally, anti-apartheid protests in South Africa and the #End SARS social movement which protested against police brutality in Nigeria, among others. These cases highlight the importance of critically evaluating the legal framework and challenging conformity when necessary for the sake of achieving social progress and justice.
In conclusion, conformity within a legal framework is a complex issue. While it ensures social order and stability, it also raises questions about individual rights, personal freedoms, and the potential for suppressing innovation and progress. Striking a balance between collective welfare and individual liberties is an ongoing challenge for any society, requiring ongoing dialogue, evaluation and reform of laws to ensure they are fair, just and reflect the evolving values and needs of the population.
– Abraham Achimugu writes from Abuja.
