The Pledging Process is Unfair
The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines “fraternity” as a group of people associated or formally organized for a common purpose, interest, or pleasure (www.M-W.com). One thing that identifies fraternities is the use of Greek letters to represent their names. However, it is good to remember that when society first introduced fraternities, the names of their members were anonymous, and the meetings were held secretly. The reason for this secrecy was to introduce religious traditions derived from the Enlightenment as habits and customs into society in a way to reach an ideal society (McWilliams 1). Members of earlier fraternities wanted to make changes in society without thinking of receiving an award for it, simply seeking to develop a sense of morality and unity with themselves and among the others. However, in today’s American society, the roles of social fraternities have been sadly lost (Nuwer 286). Many young people, especially college students, see fraternities as a way to meet more people while in school, go to parties, get drunk, and if they are lucky enough, have occasional sex. Fortunately, as most things in life, there are some exceptions to this scenario; there are some fraternities that try harder than others to maintain the high standards of their organization by not getting involved in illicit practices. However, in either case, the pledging process of some fraternities and sororities is unfair, unnecessary and affects the school work of the pledges negatively. It also affects their individuality.
Recruiters always say they want the best for their pledges, however, most of the time, pledging affects the school work of the students. While pledging, potential members have to be supervised almost all of the time. They even have to sleep in the same room with their “master” or “big brother.” However, almost every night, pledges are awakened in the middle of the night to complete different initiation rites. For...