That's a popular line from PNOY's speeches. I was thinking about Pragmatism and how it emphasizes that people go school to be useful to the society. Basically, that's it. We study, we learn, we improve ourselves and our intellect, so that we can contribute to the society.
Why did I use Pnoy's quote? Because it's what Pragmatism is asking us to do! I'm not totally against it, there's nothing wrong with becoming a good person for the society. In fact, we need more of those people nowadays in our country! But in general per se, what happens to us? To our individualism? Can't we WANT to be what we want to be, just for ourselves? I want to become a rock star because I know it will improve my confidence and self-esteem, get wealthier and live a comfortable life. But from a pragmatist's point of view, I will become a movie star so that I can help the economy of the Philippines by producing movies that people will buy tickets to, and I want to be a movie star so that I can run for office in the senate and be a public "servant".
Again, I am not totally against the idea of people wanting to be a "man for others". But one must also not forget the self. We have to think of ourselves in the things that we do; be careful that our aspirations and dreams do not get in the way with our self actualization. That while we strive to achieve our goals and find a place in the society, we should not forget that we should also be striving to become better persons.
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