Something that I think is related to this is all the recent research that links self-esteem to violence. These studies are finding that one of the strongest triggers of violent behaviour is when one's self-image is threatened--so by artificially boosting self-esteem, we are increasing the chances that its level is unsustainable, and therefore increase violence.
The idea of "honor" being based on prestige, "respect," "props," etc. is a similarly "weak self-esteem" setup, IMHO--where undeserved "honor" can be sustained only through violence.
God forbid that someone is dissed.
"The idea of "honor" being based on prestige, "respect," "props," etc. is a similarly "weak self-esteem" setup, IMHO--where undeserved "honor" can be sustained only through violence."
I'm of the opinion you've made a very vaild point with that observation. Come to think of it, there's nothing in the 'religion' of islam that would increase the self-esteem of its followers, is there?