NAME; EGBAYELO YETUNDE DEBORAH .

INSTITUTION; AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY ZARIA, KADUNA STATE .

DEPARTMENT; NURSING SCIENCE

LEVEL;400

Critical Thinking; Navigating the Wisdom of Marcus Cicero and the Philanthropists of Dr. Iyiola Aiyeku and Chief Mrs Janet Aiyeku .

Introduction

Critical thinking is an essential skill in today’s rapidly evolving world. It allows individuals to evaluate information, consider different perspectives, and make informed decisions. The Aiyeku Foundation, through its scholarship program, aims to cultivate this skill among its beneficiaries, preparing them to become future leaders capable of navigating complex societal challenges. This essay explores the importance of critical thinking, the benefits of the Aiyeku Foundation scholarship, and how the ancient wisdom of Marcus Cicero can be applied to contemporary society.

Critical thinking involves analyzing facts to form a judgment. It is a disciplined process that includes the evaluation of data, evidence, and arguments. Critical thinkers question assumptions, consider the context, and seek out diverse perspectives before reaching conclusions. This skill is crucial for personal development, academic success, and effective leadership, which I happens to be a beneficiary.

The Benefits of the Aiyeku Foundation Scholarship

The Aiyeku Foundation scholarship provides numerous benefits to me as a recipient, fostering both academic and personal growth. Key benefits include:

1. Financial Support: The scholarship alleviates financial burdens, allowing student like me to focus on studies without the stress of tuition fees and other expenses.

2. Access to Quality Education: Open opportunity for me to attend prestigious institutions, gaining access to high-quality education and resources.

3. Mentorship and Networking: The Foundation offers mentorship programs, connecting students with professionals and peers who can guide and support them.

4. Development of Critical Thinking: Through various workshops and activities, the Foundation emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, encouraging students to question, analyze, and innovate.

5. Community Service: Recipients are encouraged to give back to their communities, fostering a sense of social responsibility and leadership.

ANALYZING CICERO’S TABLE

Marcus Cicero, a great Roman philosopher, offered profound insights into the roles of different societal groups. His table of wisdom from 43 BC remains relevant today, highlighting the dynamics between various social roles and the impact of leadership and philanthropy.

1 The Poor – Work & Work: This reflects the relentless effort of the lower economic class to sustain their livelihood, often facing significant challenges and limited opportunities. The phrase “The poor work and work” is a relevant expression that highlights the struggles and injustices faced by those living in poverty, it emphasizes the disconnect between the hard work and dedication of the poor and their inability to escape poverty.

2. The Rich – Exploit The Poor: Cicero points out the exploitation inherent in economic disparities, where the wealthy often benefit at the expense of the poor. It suggests a complex web of power dynamics, systemic inequalities, and unfair practices that perpetuate economic and social disparities.

3. The Soldier – Protects Both: The role of soldiers in maintaining security and protecting the interests of all societal groups is emphasized. The idea that “the soldier protects both the rich and the poor” highlights the role of the military in maintaining national security and protecting citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status. Protecting National Interests by Safeguarding the country from external threats, ensuring territorial integrity, Supporting law enforcement, preventing chaos, and upholding the rule of law assisting in natural disasters, crises, and emergencies, without discrimination.

4. The Tax Payer – Pays For All Three: Taxpayers fund public services and infrastructure, supporting the functioning of society. This statement highlights the role of taxation in supporting various aspects of society. Taxpayers contribute to the provision of public goods and services, such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Taxes support programs that benefit the poor and vulnerable, like unemployment benefits, food assistance, and housing support.

5. The Banker – Robs All Four: Criticism of financial institutions and their role in exacerbating economic inequalities is evident. This suggests a critical view of the banking system and its impact on various groups. Banks may charge high fees and interest rates, affecting people from all walks of life, banks might engage in predatory lending practices, targeting vulnerable individuals, including the poor, they may invest in risky assets, putting depositors’ funds at risk, including those of the rich and taxpayers. Banks can be used for money laundering and corrupt activities, affecting individuals and societies.

6. The Lawyer – Misleads All Five: The potential for legal professionals to manipulate the law for personal gain is highlighted. The idea that “the lawyer misleads the poor, the rich, the banker, and the soldier” suggests a critical view of the legal profession and its impact on various groups. Lawyers may use complex language, confusing clients and creating opportunities for exploitation. Their’ fees can be excessive, taking advantage of vulnerable clients, including the poor.

7. The Doctor – Bills All Six: The cost of healthcare and its impact on all societal groups is underscored. The idea that “the doctor bills the poor, the rich, the soldier, the taxpayer, and the banker and lawyer. Medical expenses affect everyone regardless of socio-economic status, individuals may face medical bills for various reasons, from routine care to emergencies.

8. The Goons – Scare All Of Seven: The presence of criminal elements and their effect on societal stability is acknowledged. The idea that “the Goons scare the poor, the rich, the soldier, the taxpayer, the banker, the lawyer, and the doctor” highlights the pervasive nature of fear and intimidation in society.

9. The Politician – Lives Happily On Account Of All Eight: Politicians often enjoy privileges derived from the contributions and efforts of all society members. The idea that “the politician lives happily on account of the poor, the rich, the soldier, the taxpayer, the banker, the lawyer, the doctor, the goons, and the politician” suggests a complex web of relationships and power dynamics.

Applying Cicero’s Wisdom to Modern Society

Cicero’s observations resonate with contemporary issues such as economic inequality, the role of governance, and the importance of social justice. Critical thinking enables individuals to analyze these dynamics, understand their implications, and advocate for positive change.

1.The poor -work and work: This can be related to the poor farmers who mostly lived in rural areas and work tirelessly to put food on their table, it can also be seen among people who do domestic work for the rich in other to earn living. The poor they are been paid can hardly take care of their financial life dues to the fact that the money is small and they may tends to have a large family to caretaker for. Despite their tireless efforts, they remain trapped in a cycle of financial struggles. It may suggest that the poor are being taken advantage of, forced to work long hours for meager wages, while others reap the benefits of their labor. The phrase implies that the current system perpetuates poverty, making it difficult for individuals to break free from the cycle of hardship no matter how hard they work. It underscores the limited access to resources, education, and opportunities that could help the poor improve their socio-economic situation.

2.The rich exploit the poor: The rich always take advantage of the poor due to their desperate need of financial assistance, they made them work tirelessly for them and end up paying them a small amount especially those involves in domestic work, wages and salary earners who work under them.

The idea that “the rich exploit the poor” suggests a power imbalance where those with wealth and influence take advantage of those who are disadvantaged and vulnerable. Paying low wages, denying benefits, and subjecting workers to poor conditions, Controlling markets, prices, and resources to maintain wealth and power, restricting opportunities for education, healthcare, and social mobility, using wealth and power to shape policies and laws that favor the interests of the rich.

By acknowledging and addressing these issues, we can work towards a more equitable society where wealth and power are not used to exploit and oppress.

3.The solder protect the both-. It the duty of the military personnel to protect both the rich and the poor irrespective of their financial status and social status.

Soldiers take an oath to protect the nation and its citizens, without bias or prejudice. Their primary responsibility is to safeguard the country, regardless of individual wealth or status. They are expected to provide equal protection to all citizens, without favoritism or discrimination.

By acknowledging the complexities and challenges, we can work towards ensuring that the military serves as a force for protection, justice, and equality, upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status.

4.The tax payer pays for all the three- Taxpayers fund the military and defense efforts, protecting the country and its interests. Taxes cover the costs of governing, including salaries for public officials, administrators, and law enforcement.

Ideally, taxation systems are designed to be progressive, where the wealthy are taxed at a higher rate than the poor. However, tax evasion and avoidance schemes often benefit the rich, shifting the burden to the middle and lower classes. Ongoing debates surround tax reform, aiming to balance fairness, efficiency, and economic growth. Taxpayers, regardless of income level, benefit from public goods and services. Taxation helps maintain social cohesion by supporting vulnerable populations and promoting economic stability. Taxes fund investments in infrastructure, education, and research, driving economic growth and innovation. By acknowledging the interconnectedness of taxation and its impact on various segments of society, we can work towards creating a more equitable and efficient tax system that benefits all.

5.The banker Robs all four _In this our modern society, bank charges for SMS, ATM card maintenance, alert SMS are lots more is a legal of robbing both the poor, the rich, the soldier and even the tax payer.

Banks can be used for money laundering and corrupt activities, affecting individuals and societies. Excessive fees, predatory lending, and limited access to financial services can exacerbate poverty. Investment risks, tax evasion, and corrupt practices can impact the wealthy, potentially leading to financial losses. Soldiers and their families may face financial challenges due to predatory lending, high interest rates, and limited financial education. Taxpayers may bear the burden of bank bailouts, corruption, and economic instability caused by reckless banking practices.

Inadequate regulation and oversight can enable unethical banking practices. Banks may prioritize profits over social responsibility, contributing to economic inequality, banking systems can pose systemic risks to economies, affecting individuals and societies.

By acknowledging these concerns, we can work towards creating a more equitable and responsible banking system that serves the needs of all, while minimizing harm and risk.

6.The lawyer Misleads all five- People who are meant to be fighting against corruption are the one been corrupted the most. Collecting bribes and defending a guilty criminal all in the name of making more money is a way of misleading the society as a whole.

Lawyers may represent clients with conflicting interests, leading to biased advice or representation. They may not always act with transparency, making it difficult for clients to make informed decisions. Poor limited access to affordable legal services, confusing legal processes, and excessive fees can further marginalize the poor. Lawyers may prioritize wealthy clients, offering preferential treatment and creating an uneven playing field. They may assist bankers in creating complex financial instruments, contributing to economic instability.

Soldiers and veterans may face legal challenges, such as navigating benefits or dealing with Post traumatic stress disorders related issues, and require trustworthy legal guidance. The legal system may not provide equal access to justice for all, favoring those with resources and power. Many individuals, including the poor and soldiers, may not understand their legal rights and options. Legal systems can perpetuate injustices, such as racial bias or gender discrimination. By acknowledging these concerns, we can work towards creating a more transparent, accountable, and equitable legal system that serves the needs of all, regardless of socio-economic status or background.

7.The doctor Bills all six-No matter the social status, the financial status and education level illness is unavoidable, a situation where by the necessary precautions and prevention to follow is been neglected then the doctor and other medical personnel must definitely bills everyone.

The ability to access quality healthcare can be influenced by factors like income, insurance coverage, and social status. Medical expenses can exacerbate poverty, forcing difficult choices between healthcare and basic needs. Even the wealthy may face significant medical bills, potentially impacting their financial security. Military personnel and veterans may face unique healthcare challenges, including combat-related injuries and mental health concerns.

Taxpayers contribute to healthcare systems through taxes, funding public health programs and services. Even bankers who manage finances, can face medical expenses, highlighting the universal nature of healthcare needs. Healthcare systems can be costly, making it difficult for individuals to afford necessary care. Access to quality healthcare can be unevenly distributed, favoring those with resources and power. Complex billing systems and administrative tasks can add to healthcare costs and stress. By acknowledging these concerns, we can work towards creating a more equitable, accessible, and affordable healthcare system that prioritizes patients’ needs and well-being.

A comprehensive perspective! The idea that “the doctor bills the poor, the rich, the soldier, the taxpayer, the banker, and the lawyer” highlights the universal nature of medical expenses and the impact on various segments of society, including professionals like lawyers. Here’s a more detailed exploration.

8.The goons scare of all seven: In Nigeria as a country alot of unidentified goons are moving freely and living fine such as the bandits, unknown gunmen, kidnappers, Boko haram etc. They scare everybody and even collect ransom from the relatives affected.

Goons or individuals who use intimidation and violence, can instill fear in people from all walks of life. Goons often exploit power imbalances, targeting vulnerable individuals and groups. The poor may face fear of eviction, exploitation, or violence. The wealthy may fear loss of status, property, or security. Military personnel may face fear of combat, injury, or trauma. Taxpayers may fear audits, fines, or legal issues. Bankers may fear financial loss, fraud, or reputational damage. Lawyers may fear legal challenges, malpractice suits, or reputational harm. Doctors may fear medical malpractice suits, patient safety issues, or reputational damage.

By acknowledging these concerns, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable society that protects individuals from fear and intimidation, and holds goons accountable for their actions.

9.The politician live happily on the account of all eight – Politicians live happily on account of all them irrespective of where they belong, they do this by embezzling the money made, sharing the national cake alone and turning the political position to inheritance. Politicians are elected to represent the interests of their constituents, including the poor, rich, soldiers, and taxpayers. They receive funding and support from various groups, including bankers, lawyers, and doctors. Politicians may be influenced by special interest groups, including corporations and organizations represented by lawyers and lobbyists. They may use their power to benefit themselves and their allies, including the goons, who may provide muscle or intimidation. Politicians may exploit their position for personal gain, leading to corruption and abuse of power. Politicians may prioritize the interests of the wealthy and powerful over those of the poor and vulnerable.

Politicians may not be held accountable for their actions, allowing them to act with impunity. Political systems may be flawed, allowing for the concentration of power and the exploitation of vulnerable groups. By acknowledging these concerns, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable political system that truly represents the interests of all constituents, not just the powerful and well-connected.

The Role of Dr. Iyiola Aiyeku and the Aiyeku Foundation

Dr. Iyiola Aiyeku and Chief Mrs Janet Aiyeku through their philanthropy, addresses many of the societal issues highlighted by Cicero. The Aiyeku Foundation scholarship is a testament to his commitment to empowering future leaders and fostering a more equitable society.

The Philanthropist: A Force for Good

Empowering Future Leaders

Dr. Aiyeku’s vision aligns with the need to cultivate critical thinking among young people. By providing educational opportunities and resources, the Foundation helps students develop the skills necessary to challenge the status quo, advocate for social justice, and create innovative solutions to societal problems.

Supporting Personal Goals

The scholarship enables recipients to pursue their personal and academic goals without the constraints of financial barriers. This support is crucial in developing confident, capable individuals who can contribute positively to society.

Promoting Social Responsibility

This emphasis on community service and giving back instills a sense of social responsibility in beneficiaries. This aligns with Cicero’s call for ethical leadership and the importance of considering, the welfare of all societal groups. Relating the above discussion to a Philanthropist who gives students scholarships in the community can be a powerful way to illustrate the positive impact of individual actions.

Empowering students

By providing scholarships, the philanthropist is empowering students from various backgrounds, including the poor, to access education and improve their socio-economic status.

Breaking cycles of poverty

Education can help break cycles of poverty, and the philanthropist’s scholarships can be a crucial step in this process.

Supporting the community

The philanthropist’s efforts can have a ripple effect, supporting not only individual students but also the broader community, including taxpayers, who benefit from a more educated and productive workforce.

Contrast to the goons

Unlike the goons, who use intimidation and exploitation, the philanthropist is using their resources to uplift and support others.

Inspiring positive changes

The philanthropist’s actions can inspire others to make a positive impact, creating a wave of kindness and generosity that can counterbalance the negative influences in society. Here’s a more detailed connection:

The Philanthropist’s Impact (Dr Iyiola Aiyekun and Chief Mrs Janet Aiyeku)

1. Education as a great equalizer: By providing scholarships, the philanthropist is helping to level the playing field, giving students from disadvantaged backgrounds a chance to succeed.

2. Breaking down barriers: Scholarships can help break down barriers to education, such as financial constraints, that might otherwise prevent talented students from reaching their full potential.

3. Empowering future leaders: By supporting students’ education, the philanthropist is empowering future leaders, innovators, and change-makers who can drive positive impact in their communities.

4. Ripple effect: The philanthropist’s efforts can have a ripple effect, inspiring others to give back, and creating a culture of philanthropy and social responsibility.

5. Contrast to exploitative systems: The philanthropist’s actions stand in contrast to exploitative systems that perpetuate inequality, such as predatory lending or corrupt political practices.

6. Supporting community development: By investing in education, the philanthropist is supporting community development, which can lead to economic growth, improved health outcomes, and a higher quality of life.

7. Fostering a sense of community: The philanthropist’s efforts can help foster a sense of community, as students, educators, and community members come together to support a common goal.

8. Creating a legacy: The philanthropist’s scholarships can create a lasting legacy, as students go on to achieve great things and pay it forward, inspiring future generations.

By relating the discussion to the philanthropist’s efforts, we can highlight the importance of individual actions in creating positive change and promoting a more equitable society.

In Conclusion

Critical thinking is essential for navigating the complexities of modern society. The Aiyeku Foundation scholarship provides invaluable support to students, fostering our development as future leaders. By reflecting on the wisdom of Marcus Cicero and the philanthropic efforts of Dr. Iyiola Aiyeku and Chief Mrs Janet Aiyeku,we can appreciate the importance of education, ethical leadership, and social responsibility in creating a more just and equitable world. In conclusion, the philanthropist’s scholarship initiative is a commendable effort to address the symptoms of a larger problem.

To create meaningful change, we must address the root causes of these problems, Economic systems that prioritize profit over people. The philanthropist’s scholarship initiative is a vital step towards creating a more equitable society.