Although we inhabit a small island, where everyone knows almost everyone else, somehow it seems we tend to erect hierarchies.

This applies not only to social, economic and political status but, more importantly, to moral consideration and regard.

Recently we had two men who, allegedly, due to their depression, committed serious blunders with grave repercussions. I am referring to the man who caused the explosion of the Għargħur fireworks factory and to the Nationalist MP who voted 'yes' instead of 'no'.

While the latter was, rightly, given the chance to redeem himself through a high-profile favourable interview and public apologies because his condition was unjustly mentioned, the other made the front-page (The Sunday Times, May 2).

These and other considerations seem to imply that, as a friend pointed out, there are some inhabitants among us who are 'abusable' and others who are not.