HEROISM is evident in both education and broader social learning in Pakistan. Curricula and textbooks, our political culture, television debates and social media discourse all glorify personalities. But excessive emphasis on a hero oversimplifies history and conceals structural issues and collective contributions, training young minds to believe that only exceptional individuals achieve progress. This creates passive citizenship, personality cults and a dependence on ‘saviours’, resulting in declining respect for institutions and democratic participation, and weakening gradual social reform. No wonder students stay away from social movements, institutional processes and public participation. Consequently, the contributions of ordinary citizens towards transforming societies are reduced. They see history as an outcome of struggles led by charismatic figures rather than the social actions of many.

In addition to formal education, wider social learning reinforces the same heroic standards. The media, including digital platforms, carry political messaging that elevates individuals to the status of reformers. Social media surveys often ask whether a particular personality can save the country. It is more beneficial to........

© Dawn