Photo Credit: CNA's Deep Dive Podcast YouTube
In CNA’s Deep Dive podcast, SMU Assistant Professor of Sociology (Education) George Wong noted that while public spaces are theoretically shared by everyone, different neighbourhoods develop their own unique 'colours' and social norms. Asst Prof Wong explains that Singaporeans have been socialised into a system where public spaces are highly governed by authorities and citizens often default to reporting issues to officials rather than engaging in direct, informal communication with one another. He argues that instead of relying on authorities to act as mediators, communities should develop the 'confidence' to resolve disagreements through dialogue, adding that building 'cultural capital' and rapport with neighbours can help mitigate conflicts before they escalate. Asst Prof Wong suggested that people need to be 'a lot more chill' and prioritise finding ways to negotiate the use of shared spaces together, rather than viewing every inconvenience as a reason to call in the authorities.
Tune in to the podcast here to hear more of the conversation.