Understanding LKY's Coherence Theory: A Reflection on Singapore's Founding Father

Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore's founding father, was known for his intellectual prowess and his ability to effortlessly dispatch opponents with his sharp wit. However, one of the things that often perplexed me about him was the way he would resort to ad-hominem attacks against those who disagreed with him. As a young individual, I found myself at the receiving end of such attacks on several occasions.

During one of my conversations with LKY, I assumed that he was using an ad-hominem attack against me because I was too inexperienced and ignorant to understand his perspective. However, he surprised me by saying, 'Young man, one day you will grow up, and then you will have experience, and then you will understand.' He spoke in a fatherly tone, acknowledging my position while disagreeing with it.

I couldn't help but think of another prominent Singaporean figure who had experienced similar dismissive attacks in his early career. K Shanmugam, the formidable Law Minister, had faced such criticism when I first met him in 1987 during an interview for a potential candidacy. At that time, LKY was in his 80s, and I couldn't understand why he would resort to such tactics.

As I delved deeper into understanding LKY's worldview, one pattern stood out - his repeated use of the phrase 'You are young, you have seen nothing, what do you know of this topic that you speak of?' He would deploy this phrase against intellectual interlocutors, ideological opponents, or even students. I witnessed this phenomenon firsthand during the Kent Ridge Ministerial Forum in 2009.

Despite his reputation for being a great man by international standards and a legend in regional circles, LKY's actions often left me perplexed. As someone who was excited to learn about Singapore, I couldn't help but notice how his values were reflected in the country's institutions, technocracy, bookstores, and even gardens.

However, understanding LKY required knowing where to look for his influence. If you have spent any amount of time in Singapore, it becomes impossible to ignore the shadows cast by its founding father. Today, as I reflect on my encounters with him, I realize that understanding LKY's coherence theory - his way of thinking and interacting with others - is crucial to grasping the essence of Singapore.

In conclusion, while LKY's ad-hominem attacks may have been frustrating at times, they also served as a reminder of the importance of considering different perspectives. As we continue to navigate the complex landscape of Singapore, it is essential that we apply LKY's coherence theory - his emphasis on understanding and experience - in our own interactions with others.

Coherence theory theory