I was naturally speaking of my admiration for the Singapore system where there is 0 (or close to 0) corruption, an anomaly for Asian political systems. He rightly pointed out that while Singapore’s system meant very high salaries for politicians, (The Singapore group is among the best paid in the world) Scandinavia had an even more impressive record. No corruption despite the normal levels of income for politicians. It was just a part of life where he came from – corruption was not built into the system. Broken promises were not the norm.
That moment, I was caught wondering what growing up in a place with no corruption, no broken promises would be like? I don’t take the approach of blaming India’s politicians and leaders – they are, after all, a reflection of it’s people.
I just wondering when we will learn that these un-corrupt systems make for better and richer systems and in many cases, more happier. However, it requires everyone to sign up to doing their bit for a greater good. And it requires us to build circumstances/situations that will encourage such behavior.
For I don’t worry about whether the Indian/Asian people are up to the task. As I am learning from Switch (a great book by Dan and Chip Heath on change), what looks like a people problem is often a situation problem. Besides, I have seen the same Indian who litters habitually in India staying absolutely clean abroad.
I think the trick will be creating an environment where they can be the best version of themselves. And until Asia can do that, I guess a big part of me will still remain skeptical about Asia being the next super power. There may be a shift in the balance of cash and financial power, sure, but it won’t count for much if the people aren’t ready for the responsibility that goes with it.
A Learning a Day 