People are divided on the right way to raise children as future members of society. Some propose that competition should be fostered in them, whereas others might disagree and believe that the more cooperative a child learns to be, the more valuable an adult they will become. However, both views need to be reconciled for an optimal outcome.
On the one hand, instilling competitiveness in children can become a safeguard against failures in adulthood. Winning against others is becoming increasingly more challenging. Technological advancements, an overabundance of workforces, and the availability of education for all have made the world more competitive than ever before, and one day, children will grow up to live in an even more competitive environment than today, where they must win admission to universities or employment opportunities. Without a fostered sense of competition, a child may grow up to become weak, failing to be compatible with the demands of the real world. This can justify the idea that parents and the educational system should act now to ensure that the future will belong to strong individuals.
However, not all situations in life are dominated by competition. There are areas where individuals must work together toward a common goal for the good of society; otherwise, advancements in science and technology will not be guaranteed. That is why, without children who are taught the rules of cooperation, the future will be overcrowded with self-centered, competitive people who are untrained to work with others in a team, causing widespread distrust, hostility, and stunted progress. One example that can highlight the significance of this is constructing a tower. Competition might secure an employment opportunity in the project; however, it is the collaboration of engineering and bricklayers that results in a magnificent building.
These discussions suggest that the two perspectives are valid, but a combined force of both might be a better option for a better outcome. A child will grow up to face both competitors and companions. When dealing with the former, it is necessary to apply the rules of competition, while when dealing with the latter, it is essential to follow the principles of teamwork. Parents and the educational system should, therefore, encourage both skills in children so that they can lead a balanced life.
