The crisis of ethical values in modern times is traced to a narrow perception of the good life. Discuss. (2017)
A good life entails the fulfilment of all values, including economic, sociological, emotional, aesthetic, spiritual, ethical, and humanistic ones. The four purusharthas (pillars) – Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha – are realised in the ancient Indian tradition (religion, wealth, sensual pleasures, salvation).
The narrow view of material values, i.e., Artha and Kama (wealth and sensuous pleasure) alone, can be connected to the crisis of ethical values in modern society. The entire purpose of life has become the acquisition of personal success, which is characterised in monetary terms, power, and status.
The crisis of ethical values in modern society can be linked to a restricted view of material values, i.e., Artha and Kama (wealth and sensual pleasure) alone. The acquisition of personal achievement, defined in terms of money, power, and status, has become the sole objective of life. The ends are given precedence over the means.
As a result, the modern value crisis is primarily caused by a limited understanding of what constitutes a good life, which emphasises material values while downplaying moral and ethical values. Happiness, peace, contentment, and other life values that offer meaning, significance, and completeness to human existence are viewed as obstacles in a high way to material prosperity. Corruption, crony capitalism, frauds, inequality, crimes, and other social ills are on the rise.
As a narrow definition of happiness cannot be sustained in the long run, society as a whole must place a greater emphasis on broader dimensions of values in order to live a higher-quality life.