Why is literacy so important to society? The opposite: Illiteracy is when a person cannot read or write at a functional level. The consequence of this is that the person in question will have difficulty joining the workforce or getting a well-paid job as he/she lacks this basic communication skill.
The inability to read instructions, operate machinery, or manage finance effectively decreases an individual’s chances of securing well-paying jobs and achieving financial stability. This also causes the inability to make informed decisions with the chance that the illiterate person can be easily manipulated by others.
Another consequence is that low self-esteem can plague the illiterate. Non-readers often live in isolation. Nowadays, with the use of digital phones which enable users to also send voice messages, this isolation can be reduced if both parties communicate using only voice messages. If one side uses only text messages, the isolation continues.
Social cohesion is founded on the strength of social relationships that are characterized by the presence of trust and participation among individuals within that society. It is inherently based on the existence of social equity – without equitable access to opportunities and resources, and without inclusion in civil life, a sense of alienation has a chance to grow and society weakens.
The marginalization of specific community groups deprives them of the opportunities and resources they need to succeed. Illiteracy leads to reduced social cohesion. Reduced social cohesion can be characterized by a diminished sense of belonging, increasing inequality of opportunity, declining trust in institutions, weakened social ties and numerous other economic, social, and political phenomena.
A country focusing on the happiness of its population will focus on including all groups in important decisions and create opportunities for everyone to improve their life. For the illiterate, this would mean creating programs to help them catch up and become literate so they can follow education and progress in their life no matter what their age or status in life. Whatever social or financial barriers impeded a good education in the past causing illiteracy should be removed, making it possible for this group to also move forward and become a happy citizen in the country, not feeling isolated or left out.
With this column, the Think To DO Institute publishes short pieces related to the facts and results of its research reports, so that readers can learn more about the vulnerability of their country. For more information about the Think To DO Institute, visit our website: www.thinktodoinstitute.com. Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
