A look at this social phenomenon in America's current society....
a- I am so fortunate to have studied at several Virginia universities where their Honor Codes were steeped in honor and tradition based on Jeffersonian ideals and values. The College of William and Mary, America's 2nd oldest, has those high standards. The University of Virginia set the standard with their Honor Code centuries ago. As a matter of fact, much of my first novel (on its last draft), The Serpentine Bond!, is based on the life of seven at U. Va. At U. Va., students are responsible for handling infractions by students.
Lying, cheating and stealing in high schools, in general, are indicative of American society overall. A parent just the other day was distraught with her daughter, living with her father, whenever the daughter communicated with the mother. "How do I get her to understand how to simply tell the truth, anymore?"
b- The problem of stealing in high school is no longer a taboo subject! And this statement is not a rationalization excuse or being a "hasty generatization." There is a total lack of even realizing, admitting that stealing something of value from another student is morally wrong. "I want it...it is now mine, especially when I can cleverly get away with it."
c- There is an ancient adage stressing "that if one complains, one must devise a solution!" Well, the solution is obvious and will take some time to get it off the ground...set up an Honor Code like we have in higher education. Students could be selected, with a few faculty members, and collectively put some strength into the rampant stealing, cheating and lying social phonomenon ALLOWED to continue and grow in our high schools throughout our American culture. The program must be a national effort! The problem can be attacked and stemmed. d- GO FOR IT, America!
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