[Points: What it means—why necessary (a) in the family, (b) in schools and colleges, (c) in the army, (d) in games and sports—licence and freedom—conclusion.]
Discipline means obedience to the established rules of conduct Every society has certain rules to control and regulate the life and activity of its members in order that the society as a whole may progress in harmony and peace. If any these rules is broken, there is trouble and the society suffers. Hence arises the need of discipline. This may sometimes appear to interfere with a man's freedom. But that is inevitable in social life.
In fact, discipline is the very basis of progress in every sphere, public or private. In the family, peace and happiness reign when the younger members obey their elders and everybody observes the established rules. If the members submit to no authority and do what they like, the family becomes a den of discord and unhappiness.
Discipline in schools and colleges requires the regular preparation of lessons and learning correct behaviour in society. It is the duty of every student to observe them if he is to build up his character and prosper in life. The greater the discipline in a school or college, the higher is the respect it commands, and the better does it fulfil its object of training young minds.
The importance of discipline among soldiers is known to all.. Every soldier has to carry out the orders of his commander without any argument. Failure to do this is liable to be punished even by death.
In the playground too, the pleasure that a game gives to players as well as to spectate's depends a great deal upon the observance of discipline by them. If the rules of the game are broken and the orders of the captain and the referee are not respected, the game becomes a disgraceful affair.
Some take licence for freedom. But sensible men know that they are quite different. In fact, the freer a nation is, the greater is its respect for rules and authority.
It has also to be remembered that those who are not disciplined. themselves cannot expect obedience from others when they themselves are put in power. As everybody hopes to rise to power, this should teach all to submit to discipline in their own lives.
