By Kiki
People often say that the true measure of a person's character can be seen in how they act when no one is watching. Perhaps it's a human instinct: in more private environments, individuals are more likely to reveal their true selves, and when the cost of making mistakes is low, people are more prone to make irresponsible choices.
Recently, a video by mainland internet celebrity Zhang Kaiyi proposed a thought-provoking suggestion: to eliminate toilets in public restrooms. In the video, she elaborated on the "three sins" of public toilets, sparking widespread discussion and resonance. First, the toilet seat often has unknown stains and potential pathogens, posing a significant threat to women's health. Second, flushing can cause bacteria to splash, which not only affects hygiene but also increases the risk of infections. Finally, the accidental flush feature of smart toilets can catch users off guard, sometimes even causing panic. More distressingly, she revealed the "survival status" of many women in public restrooms—many choose to adopt a "half-squat" position to avoid direct contact, leading not only to shaking legs but also to urine splattering everywhere.
In Hong Kong's public restrooms, I have also witnessed similar phenomena, with toilet seats frequently stained with urine. This is not necessarily due to inadequate cleaning staff but rather reflects a deeper societal issue. If everyone could consciously keep the toilet clean, do we really need to consider eliminating toilets altogether? In private spaces, many seem to become increasingly selfish, completely disregarding the next user's experience.
The situation in public restrooms is just the tip of the iceberg. A deeper question arises: Does this behavior stem from our disregard for public resources? If everyone could recognize that using public spaces is not just a personal right but also a responsibility toward others and society as a whole, perhaps the situation could change. When using public facilities, can we cultivate a bit more empathy and respect, allowing these spaces to truly become symbols of convenience and cleanliness?
Ultimately, fostering a culture of accountability and respect for shared resources is essential for creating a more civilized and responsible society. Only through collective awareness and effort can we ensure that public spaces reflect the dignity and cleanliness they deserve.
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