In the present era of technological marvels, globalization, and the social media boom, today’s youth have access to information and influences from every corner of the world. Not only are they digital natives, but they are also future leaders, innovators, and influencers. They have the great fortune of being armed with knowledge and resources like never before. Simultaneously, they face unparalleled challenges compared to earlier generations. The sheer magnitude of information, choices, and challenges emphasizes the paramount importance of instilling ethical values in them.
Why do Ethical Values matter?
1. Proliferation of Fake News and Misinformation: Riding piggyback on the internet, fake news and misinformation spread rapidly. Ethical values such as truthfulness, critical thinking, and integrity guide young people to discern fact from fiction, shaping them into informed and responsible citizens. The youth need to be exhorted to read from multiple authentic sources to enable them to form a rational and balanced view of any issue after weighing facts that are not convoluted and manipulated.
2. Mental Health and Social Pressures: Social media platforms are important modes of interaction and self-projection. But consciously or subconsciously, they also become the playfield of the dynamics of comparison. So constant comparisons and the onslaught of idealized realities can have a detrimental effect on mental health. A strong ethical foundation promotes self-worth, resilience, and the ability to understand and value real human connections over virtual validations.
3. Accountability in a Digital Age: From cyberbullying to online privacy breaches, the digital realm presents a myriad of ethical dilemmas. Instilling values such as responsibility, respect, and empathy helps young people navigate these virtual spaces with integrity.
How to instill such ethical values?
1. Role Modelling: The adage “actions speak louder than words” holds true. Parents, teachers, and community leaders need to embody the ethical principles they wish to impart. When youth see these values practised in real life, they are more likely to adopt them. We have to constantly encourage them to read biographies of successful persons who have made their lives and fortunes by sheer dint of hard work. That way youth will understand the value and dignity of hard work and labour. They will not adopt shortcuts to achieve success, financial power and social status.
2. Engaging Discussions: There is an immense need to foster an environment where young people can discuss ethical dilemmas, ask questions, and form their own opinions. They need to be encouraged and groomed to ask questions, and debate. Besides, they also have to learn to be good listeners to understand others’ points of view.
3. Real-life Experiences: Instead of providing them with too much of a snug and smug environment, we must allow them to face real-life challenges and ethical dilemmas under our guidance. This not only helps in building character but also in understanding the practical implications of their actions. In present times social media can also be a powerful tool as many real-life stories of struggles, dilemmas and courage can be hosted on YouTube and Instagram. They can inspire and exhort the youngsters.
4. Literature and Stories: Moral stories, historical accounts, or even contemporary tales that highlight ethical dilemmas can be powerful tools. They not only offer a perspective but also ignite introspection. In earlier times, in the school curriculum, there used to be a special period on moral science as well as a book prescribed for the same. It’s high time to revive the same.
5. Mentoring and Guidance: Young individuals often look up to mentors for direction. Setting up mentoring programs in schools, communities, or even workplaces can offer them a trusted avenue to seek guidance. Schools and colleges should regularly hold programmes to invite such eminent persons whose achievements, personal struggles, deeds of courage and compassion motivate the youth. Those persons can be from all the walks of life: soldiers, policemen, actors, sportspersons, social workers and even people from public life. When such personal stories are narrated with all the passion, the impact is huge and long-lasting.
The youth of today stands at the cusp of immense possibilities. They have the capacity and potential to shape a brighter, more inclusive, and progressive future. But, to ensure they lead the way with responsibility, compassion, and integrity, it’s imperative to inculcate in them the ethical values that stand the test of time. As society evolves, these values will be their guiding light, enabling them to make decisions that benefit not just themselves, but even their families, communities, societies, country and the world at large.