In a world where hatred seems to permeate every aspect of society, the question arises: why do men hate? As a student of Bayero University, Kano, in level 2, striving to make my way through the challenges of life, I have found myself facing animosity and disdain from various quarters. People hates me. Reflecting on my experiences, coupled with insights from philosophers and thinkers who have pondered this age-old question, I seek to delve into the underlying reasons behind the prevalence of hatred in human interactions.
From a personal standpoint, the journey of navigating through life as a young student has been fraught with encounters of hostility and antipathy. Whether it be in the academic sphere, where competition breeds resentment among friends, or in social settings, where differences in opinions lead to discord, the manifestations of hatred are ubiquitous. Despite my earnest efforts to forge meaningful connections and foster goodwill, I have often found myself the target of unwarranted animosity, leaving me to ponder the root causes of such hostility.
Why the hate?
One potential explanation for the prevalence of hatred lies in the inherent nature of human beings. Philosophers such as Friedrich Nietzsche and Sigmund Freud have delved into the darker aspects of human psychology, positing that hatred may stem from deep-seated insecurities, fears, and unresolved conflicts within the individual psyche. Nietzsche’s concept of ressentiment, which describes a deep-seated feeling of resentment, jealousy, and envy towards those perceived as superior, resonates with my own experiences of encountering hostility from individuals who may feel threatened by my aspirations and achievements.
Even though, in truth, I achieved nothing in comparison to what I hope to achieve.
Furthermore, social factors also play a significant role in perpetuating hatred within society. The sociologist Emile Durkheim explored the concept of anomie, referring to a state of normlessness and moral confusion that arises when societal norms and values break down. In an environment characterised by rampant individualism and societal fragmentation, feelings of alienation and estrangement may breed contempt towards others who are perceived as different or threatening to one’s own interests.
Moreover, the phenomenon of group polarization, as elucidated by social psychologist Henri Tajfel, sheds light on the tendency for individuals to adopt more extreme attitudes and behaviors when they are part of a cohesive group. In my own experiences, I have observed how group dynamics can amplify feelings of hostility and animosity towards outsiders, as individuals seek validation and solidarity within their social circles.
In my view, the question of why men hate is a complex and multifaceted issue that encompasses both individual psychological factors and broader societal dynamics. From my own experiences as a student navigating through the challenges of life, coupled with insights from philosophical and sociological perspectives, it is evident that hatred arises from a confluence of factors, including societal breakdown, and group dynamics.
Regardless of the hatred, I will continue to do good.
Note: “Why Men Hate” was first penned by Nasiru Abdulrasheed in May 2019 as part of his “Reflection on Values” publication. This publication, a tradition started at the age of 18, serves as a means for him to assess himself and express gratitude for the gift of life. The essay was written in his hostel room during his undergraduate years. During the writing process, Nasiru was battling a prolonged illness that persisted throughout 2019. It was on the night of his 21st birthday, May 21, that he wrote the essay.