Begging is a Common Practice
Begging is a practice that involves asking others for money or favors without any expectation of return. People who engage in begging are known as panhandlers or beggars. Beggars are able to be found in almost any public place, and they can sometimes ask for money from passersby.
Begging the Question
Begging the question is an informal fallacy that can occur in an argument. It occurs when the premises of an argument assume that the conclusion is true. This can cause confusion and leads to a misunderstanding. This fallacy can be avoided by avoiding the use of informal language. It's important to use clear language when arguing.
Begging the Question and Aristotle
Begging the question is a common way to make a point without providing an answer. Aristotle first used this expression to argue a point. Today, lawyers and philosophers use it to form a good argument. The question-answer format requires independent reasons and evidence.
Panhandling
Depending on the situation, it can be illegal to engage in panhandling. The law defines panhandling as a demand for a donation, which may be personal or for the benefit of a sponsor. While the latter type is usually considered charitable, it is still considered solicitation. In addition, aggressive panhandling is considered robbery.
The Study on Panhandlers
It's not uncommon to find panhandlers merrily begging for money, but in some places, it is illegal. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) conducted a study in Washington, D.C., in 1991. The results revealed a higher proportion of women, minorities, college students, and employed individuals among panhandlers than those who did not panhandle.
Interactions with Panhandlers
Panhandlers often experience humiliation and exclusion. These interactions can cause them to lose self-respect. While some people ignore them, others approach them and try to make amends.
Theravada Buddhist Monks
Most Theravada Buddhist monks do not eat after noon. In the early morning hours, they begin the day with group chanting and meditation before going out to the surrounding villages on an alms-round. During the day, monks spend most of their time in study of the Dhamma. They also give Dhamma talks to visitors. Buddhist monks are bound by the eight precepts of Buddhist etiquette, which include abstaining from killing, sexual activity, intoxication, and acquiring wealth.
The Obligation to Donate to Monks
Donating food to monks is considered a moral obligation for Buddhists. In Eastern countries, this act is known as dak bat, and is a way of supporting the monastic community. Donating to the monks is not strictly a charitable act, but more of an obligation that binds laypeople to men of the cloth. It also helps them to earn merit, which is the spiritual reward for doing good deeds.
Legality of Begging in Some Destinations
Begging is a common activity in many destinations, and travelers will encounter individuals who ask for money. While many beg in need, many others are well-trained and professional with a carefully honed schtick. Others have an adult training and have taste for violence, so beware of these individuals.
Cracking Down on Begging
In recent years, cities around the world have cracked down on begging. New laws in cities such as Boston and Atlanta have outlawed aggressive begging and banned panhandling in certain locations. Other cities have enacted anti-panhandling regulations, often in response to complaints by downtown businesses that street people annoy customers and tourists.
Efficacy of Bans on Begging
Bans on begging are a controversial issue in the UK. While the Government applauds the initiative, the Council of Ulama is at odds with the new policy. They argue that the ban on street begging is unjust and violates human rights. The new policy is aimed at stopping begging and protecting public health.
Debate on Bans in the US
Efficacy of bans on blight on public spaces and education policy is an ongoing debate in the U.S. Many cities are taking a more aggressive stance against begging. In some cities, such as Cincinnati, aggressive panhandling is considered a misdemeanor. This type of behavior involves obstructing a person's path, making threats, and touching a stranger without their consent. Other cities have made it illegal for panhandlers to solicit in traffic and in downtown areas. However, these bans have been challenged by the First Amendment and by opponents of these laws.
