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Category: Social Harmony
Liberal, Conservative, Or…? (Part 2 of 2): Where do Singaporeans stand?
In this second article of our two-part series on liberalism and conservatism, we look more closely at where Singaporeans stand. Attitudes seem to vary across topics such as economics, COVID-19, marriage and sex. In the end, it might really depend on the issue and circumstances that one is looking at, and a nuanced understanding is necessary.
- 10 November 2025
Liberal, Conservative, Or…? (Part 1 of 2): A look at concepts
This is the first of a two-part series on liberalism and conservatism. In this first article, we tap on the analysis of some experts to help unpack the concepts of liberalism and conservatism. While liberal traditions generally endorse the idea that people should be free to do what they want as long as they do not harm others, conservative traditions are broadly inclined towards stability.
- 5 November 2025
“So… Why Does Marriage Even Matter Anymore?” A Conversation Between a Mum and Her Two Gen Z Daughters
"Just a piece of paper?" or "What if it doesn't work out?" In this piece, a guest contributor shares a conversation with her two Gen Z daughters on the topic of marriage.
- 25 September 2025
Wrong or Not: A nuanced look at attitudes towards marriage definition
A survey by the Institute of Policy Studies found that local views on gay sex and marriage “liberalised significantly” over the past decade, while Cultivate SG’s “Marriage, Family and Social Discourse” suggests a high level of support for marriage as a man-woman union. We unpack these findings in this article. Could it be that society is becoming less “judgmental”?
- 5 September 2025
Why Singapore’s Marriage Policy Makes Sense
Singapore laws define marriage as a union between a man and a woman, and various policies support the family formed through marriage. In this thought-provoking piece, a guest contributor explains why these laws and policies make sense.
- 25 August 2025
Becoming Mum: A Cultivate Commune (May) update
Becoming a mother can be a very challenging experience for some. At our Commune on 10 May, Jennifer Heng shared her story about how she came to start Safe Place, an organisation helps unsupported pregnant women and their families.
- 14 July 2025
Fatherhood, Friendship, and Finding Community
C.S. Lewis once wrote that friendship is born when one person says to another, “What? You too? I thought I was the only one.” This Father's Day, hear the story of The Ordinary Dad, a group formed when some stay-at-home dads came together and found community.
- 15 June 2025
Divorcing? Please Still Try to Cooperate for the Sake of Your Child
In post-divorce custody battles, it is remarkable how Singapore law strives to preserve the relationship of children with both parents despite the breakdown of the marriage. Joint custody is the norm, and courts have often encouraged divorcing couples to set aside their hostility for the sake of their children.
- 10 June 2025
Marriage – Yay or Nay?
Let me start with a confession. When I was approached to write a commentary about marriage, my first reaction was “No thanks!”
- 23 May 2025
Non-interference: Parents Decide, Grandparents Follow?
In Singapore, there is an important social norm of "non-interference" between grandparents and parents. It implicitly recognises that parents have primary responsibility for raising children. Dialogue, mutual respect and understanding are important, if we want to move forward constructively.
- 16 May 2025