The National Geographic Channel recently ran a special report on the search for Sharbat Gula, the "mystery Afghan girl" who first appeared on the cover of National Geographic in 1985. Years later, the expression in her terror-filled eyes remains unchanged -- as if she is still accusing the merciless land.
Even as we absorbed the shock of her new photos and sad story, however, a series of earthquakes on March 25 killed hundreds of people in northern Afghanistan and caused massive damage. In the course of the continuing Afghan tragedy, comparisons between reality and illusion and life and death have highlighted certain myths about human existence. The tragedy also carries great significance, not least as a test of people's sense of identity within society and a reflection of the hardships faced by a culture.
Taiwan is engulfed in a war of words, following the disclosure of the National Security Bureau's (NSB) secret accounts. The war has focused on the leaking of information, national security and press freedom. The leaks have pitted supporters of former president Lee Teng-hui (李登輝) and PFP Chairman James Soong (宋楚瑜) against each other. It has also become the focus of tension among different ethnic groups and reopened historical wounds. It is also a rehash of old political battles, as the ruling camp tries to extend its power and the opposition camp tries to gain power.
Scholars Theodor Adorno and Max Horkheimer long ago pointed out that "nothing is natural about our memories, that the past -- the practices, the habits, the dates and facts and places, the very furniture of our existence -- is an artifice, and one susceptible of the most varied and sometimes of the most guilty manipulations."
As globalization progresses, perhaps we already live in a world in which people share the same sorrows.
In the mid-20th century, the "progressive ideal" was replaced by "crisis discourse." Beginning in the late 20th century, we experienced "trauma discourse" not only in hospitals but in daily life. From natural disasters to wars and the collapse of trust between people, these traumas have shaken the fundamental beliefs of human existence. Moreover, our sufferings are not caused directly by the traumas themselves. Rather, they are caused by people being disabused of the illusion that the social system is able to guarantee our safety. Traumas have reminded us that our society is in fact very fragile.
If there is any form of inspiration to be drawn from the war in Afghanistan, the 228 Incident, the 921 earthquake, Typhoon Nari and the NSB leaks, it is perhaps that discussion of such traumas is a good way to reduce the pain they cause. It is therefore important to listen to and be constantly concerned about the victims of these traumas.
In Taiwan's society, over-whelmed as it is by information and consumerism, news broadcasting in a fast-food style and the settlement of political mat-ters by duel are all too common. How much damage can our society afford in the face of today's conflicts?
Lin Yaw-sheng is an assistant professor in the department of psychology of Kaohsiung Medical University.
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