Social values refer to the various norms and customs existing in society. Social values differ from society to society. Every society has some distinctive values. In the past, the social values of our country were based on our traditional beliefs and customs. Today we are almost ignorant about our social duties and responsibilities. It means acceptable and admirable norms of behavior in society. Obedience and respect for the elders were predominant in our society. Children in the family often do not have the opportunity of socializing. Attending different social arrangements was also a part of our social life. But all these are now changing.
Present-day people are forgetting all these social values. The social ties among the members of society are decreasing. They no longer confine themselves to the age-old customs and traditions. A number of reasons work for this change. People are getting educated and education gives those new ideas and liberal outlook. Without a few exceptions, people now run after money, fame, and fortune without giving any thought to right or wrong, good or evil, moral or immoral. The present social value disturbs social peace and happiness and stops the development works. Moreover, people are becoming financially solvent. They are now under the spell of money which makes them run forward. The effects of social values in the present age are very deplorable. As a result, they are forgetting their traditional social norms. The causes of the present social degradation are the materialistic attitude of people in general.
Apart from this, the progress of science and commerce also has a great influence to make a change in social values. We should take some positive steps to upgrade social values. All these changes have a great impact on our society. Parents should take proper care of their children and give them moral teaching. Due to the current social values, people are becoming self-centered. Obedience and respect for the older no longer exist in society. People have already been oblivious of their traditional culture, beliefs, and customs. If this condition continues, we will lose the values, norms, and beliefs of our society. Our greedy and selfish attitude should be changed. However, social values should be preserved by way of raising awareness among people. So, we have to be aware of it and should try heart and soul to preserve our social values. Otherwise, as a nation, we will invariably fall into great danger.
