Social Discipline, films, videos, television

Changing society and its impact

By Padma Bhargav, Gujarat, India, Freelance Journalist

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Since my childhood I have been hearing that 'man is a social animal.' My teachers and parents answered my queries and explained that man lives in a society and therefore has to abide by the general rules and norms prescribed to lead a descent life. Probably this is the reason that cave man also felt the need to discover clothes and shelter to cover and protect the body.

Today when I look around, I find that Aristotle's definition could change to 'man is a carefree social animal.' Carefree because today man is totally free to do whatever, whereever and whenever he or she likes. When questions are raised on changing culture, society, vulgarity and nudity we conveniently blame the western culture. Why should we blame it when there is lot to adapt and adopt from western culture other than openness, namely discipline, cleanliness, maintenance of roads, work efficiency, value for time, respecting individuals, and the list can go on.

I agree that we need to change with time but does that mean that we become its victims? India is known all over the world for its rich culture, temples, heritages, history, monuments, vedas, upanishads, Gita, health building systems like yoga, ayurveda, nature therapy, various dance forms, arts and much more. Unfortunately, we indians are getting diverted and misled in order to keep pace with the changing world and forgetting the significance of social discipline.

What kind of society are we aiming at? Freedom is necessary but freeness is harmful. It is harmful for people of all age groups because its impact is quite deep and could shake the roots of our existence. This openness is leading to child abuse, sexual exploitation and heinous acts against the natural practice. It is surprising that schools are also no exception. What are known as 'temples of education' are today becoming 'convenient places for all kinds of exploitation'. The children do not reveal the facts due to fear and undergo severe mental trauma affecting thier studies, career and even lives. The same holds true for homes, offices and other work places.

What are the reasons? It could be too much information flow from various sources, influence of television programs, serials, media, films, videos etc. This is true to some extent but is it correct to blame the sources all the time? Good and bad prevail in society at the same time. It requires proper selection, it is on the individual whether he wants to choose the bad side and be a part of the crowd or choose the good side and lead the crowd.

There is a need to introduce a special subject on vedic culture in schools and colleges so that the young generation learns and understands the importance of a disciplined life. Introduction of sex education will alone not curb the prevalent practices, it should be mandatory for every individual to serve in the defence forces after completing 18 years of age for at least one year. Besides, the police should come out of the hold of bureaucrats and politicians and catch the guilty. Of course, the law in turn has to 'act fast' and punish them to prevent repeated offence. Above all it is the collective responsibility of the citizens to build a healthy and disciplined society free of indescency.