Knowledge and Courage

The Netherlands [ENA] Every book is a reflection of a human life. Through the books we read, we gain a deeper understanding of the world, different cultures, and historical events. But we must remember: reading is one thing, learning is another; looking is different from truly seeing. Too often, we read and observe without truly grasping what lies beneath the surface. The key is not just to absorb words but to understand their meaning and learn from them. Among the many books I have read recently, Malala Yousafzai’s I Am Malala has left a profound impact on me. Even though my thoughts feel scattered after finishing it, I feel compelled to share them.

Malala became a global icon at an incredibly young age. She stood up against the Taliban regime in Pakistan, fearlessly advocating for girls' and women’s right to education. Despite relentless threats and oppression, she never backed down. Even after surviving an assassination attempt, her voice only grew stronger. But Malala’s fight was never just about herself—it was about securing freedom and education for all women in her country. Yet, what has come of this struggle? Have the rights of women and girls in Pakistan and Afghanistan been protected? The answer remains uncertain. I do not know the full extent of progress in Pakistan, but we do know that in neighboring Afghanistan, the Taliban remains in power—a fact that speaks volumes.

Too often, limited knowledge or biased narratives lead us to form misguided opinions about nations and people. When a terrorist attack occurs in Europe and the perpetrator is identified as Afghan, many are quick to direct their anger toward an entire country and its people. But does every Afghan support the Taliban? Are they all extremists? Of course not. Many Afghan citizens are victims of the very same regime they are unfairly associated with. History has repeatedly shown us the dangers of such generalizations. During Nazi Germany, not every German supported Hitler’s ideology.

Many risked their lives to protect Jewish families, even when it meant certain death. Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief and Anne Frank’s Diary illustrate this reality with haunting clarity. The same patterns have played out across different times and places. Today, millions of children around the world are deprived of education—not by accident, but by design. There is a principle in Roman law: Cui bono?—“Who benefits?” The suppression of education is never coincidental; it serves those who thrive on control. An uneducated population is easier to manipulate, easier to radicalize, and easier to use as pawns for political gain.

Is there a heaven or a hell? I do not know. But what I do know is this: we humans have the power to turn this world into either one. If there is a way to create a better world, it is through education, knowledge, and enlightenment. Malala’s story has inspired millions, proving that a single voice can shake the world. Now, it is our turn. We must take action, recognize the transformative power of education, and advocate for it. Only then can we make this world a better place—one where learning and knowledge lead us toward a future of progress, equality, and peace.