Nurture or nature? - Art can save lives

THE nurture versus nature debate has bubbled away for centuries. There are those who believe that a person, a character can be formed by either positive or negative influences. There are others who believe that each of us is born with the character that will shape our lives. One view is humanist and optimistic, the other fatalistic and less than inspiring.

The idea that a person can benefit from good influences is far more appropriate to the times we live in.

That is what has been realised in the Bridewell Garda Station in Dublin’s north inner city where an exhibition of artworks by young people who are at risk of engaging in crime or anti-social behaviour has been opened.

Organised under the auspices of the Stoneybatter Youth Service and the MOST Project — which is a Garda Youth Diversion Project — the initiative may not change the lives of all participants but if it changes the lives of even a few it deserves all of our congratulations.