Dear Editor,

Has Jamaica gone mad? This is the question on the lips of many here and abroad because of the murders, rapes and vigilante actions which seem to be increasing.

But Jamaica has not gone mad. We have simply gone overboard. Here is an illustrative view of what I mean. When Jamaicans 45 and over were in high school 35 to 40 years ago, there were bullies and rapists at the schools they attended. However, for every 10 student males at the time, only one young male could probably be so categorised. That young bully and rapist was well known by all, avoided by many, befriended by few and eventually ostracised or arrested after organising his first "battery" (gang rape) or stabbing.

In addition, one out every 10 student females were known as the "school mattress" (very sexually active). She too was generally well known by all, befriended by many, avoided by few and eventually ostracised or sent to "country" after experiencing her first "battery".

In addition, one out every 10 student females were known as the "school mattress" (very sexually active). She too was generally well known by all, befriended by many, avoided by few and eventually ostracised or sent to "country" after experiencing her first "battery".

Now, the numbers have drastically flipped. Eight out of 10 young student males are bullies and eight out of 10 student females are "mattresses" and the remaining minority - two - are resisting the temptation daily to join the gang. But why have we gone overboard?

This is the result of lowering family, community and national standards concerning violence and sex. The bully, once ostracised and arrested, is now the "big man" glorified for his badness and sexual prowess. The "mattress", once hidden away in the "country", is now the hot girl glorified for her sexual stamina and ability.

If Jamaica is to become the place to live, work, raise families and do business, we must stop the rise of lewd behavoiur before we are all engulfed. No more excuses or pontifications, especially by those who should know better. Let's stop the rise of obscenity at home, school and community.

Michael Aiken

mandrewa@aol.com