M Munir Hossain

Bangladeshi society has witnessed a steady erosion of traditional moral, ethical, and religious values in recent decades. This decline manifests itself in a growing disregard for the suffering of others, the prioritisation of self-interest over the common good, and a diminished focus on intellectual pursuits. The result is a social backdrop increasingly defined by cynicism, apathy, and a lack of principled leadership.

One of the most concerning aspects of this trend is the desensitisation to the suffering of others. Once a society known for its strong sense of community and compassion, Bangladesh now seems to struggle with widespread indifference. The plight of the poor, the marginalised, and victims of injustice often fail to evoke the empathy and action they deserve. Instead, a culture of self-absorption has taken root, where individuals and groups focus narrowly on their own needs and desires, often at the expense of others.

The breakdown of vital social institutions like the family is another alarming symptom of this moral decay. Traditionally, the family unit has been the bedrock of Bangladeshi society, providing a nurturing environment where values and traditions are passed down from generation to generation. However, we are witnessing a concerning rise in fractured families, characterised by domestic violence, neglect, and a lack of familial bonds. This fragmentation undermines the fundamental cornerstone of our society, leaving individuals without the support and guidance needed to navigate the complexities of life.

The decline of traditional institutions extends to the realm of religious education. In the past, local mosques played a vital role in imparting moral and spiritual guidance to young people. Sadly, this role seems to be diminishing. Many mosques lack the resources and programmes necessary to engage with youth meaningfully, leading to a disconnection between younger generations and the ethical teachings of Islam. Without a strong spiritual foundation, individuals are more susceptible to drifting towards materialistic pursuits and self-serving behaviours.

In the realm of education, a troubling politicisation has taken root. Teachers, who should be impartial mentors dedicated to intellectual development, often find themselves divided along political lines. Political allegiance has become a factor in appointments and promotions, especially at the tertiary level. This politicisation undermines the integrity of education, hindering the development of critical thinking skills and fostering a culture of conformity rather than a genuine exploration of knowledge. This decay in morality and values is exacerbated by the increasing allegations of sexual harassment and molestations of students by teachers. Such behaviours not only violate the trust placed in teachers but also undermine the foundational principles of respect, dignity, and safety that should characterise any learning environment.

The obsession with discussing trivial matters, especially the personal lives of others on social media, reveals the troubling shift in priorities within our society. The pursuit of knowledge and intellectual growth is increasingly overshadowed by a preoccupation with superficial and ultimately unproductive concerns. Time and energy are wasted on frivolous online debates and the dissection of other people’s personal lives.

Perhaps nowhere is this moral decline more apparent than in the pervasive worship of wealth.  In a society where financial success is often seen as the ultimate measure of a person’s worth, many have abandoned integrity for expediency. The shame once associated with corruption and unethical practices has diminished, replaced by a disturbing normalisation of wrongdoing.

A culture has developed where individuals who have amassed wealth through questionable means or have transgressed moral boundaries are not only tolerated but even admired. Sadly, building social relationships and alliances with such individuals is a source of pride rather than shame for some. This sends a dangerous message that material gain is the primary goal and moral principles are secondary.

 Path to Renewal
Addressing this complex challenge of moral erosion requires a multifaceted approach and a collective commitment from all levels of society.

Firstly, there is an urgent need to revitalise the role of the family for nurturing morality and ethics. Parents must shoulder the responsibility of instilling strong values in their children. Educational institutions also have a duty to create an environment that encourages ethical behaviour and fosters a sense of social responsibility.

The educational system in Bangladesh requires significant reforms to encourage objective intellectualism and critical thinking. Depoliticising education is essential to break the cycle of partisan indoctrination and promote independent thought among students. Education should focus on equipping youth to become discerning citizens who can actively participate in shaping the future of their nation.

Moreover, it is crucial to address the growing desensitisation to human suffering and build a more empathetic society. This can be achieved through community initiatives that encourage volunteerism, social engagement, and support for those in need.

Importantly, the pervasive culture of corruption must be tackled head-on. Bangladesh needs strong institutions capable of ensuring transparency and accountability.

The media has a pivotal role to play as well. Responsible journalism must prioritise reporting on social injustices and highlighting stories of individuals and organisations working to make a positive difference in society.

Religious leaders hold significant influence in Bangladeshi society; they have the capacity to leverage their platforms to advocate for a return to core moral and ethical values. Emphasising the timeless principles of compassion, honesty, and social responsibility can be a powerful tool for fostering spiritual renewal and ethical behaviour.

Through a collective effort that emphasises education, values, and social engagement, Bangladeshis can create a society where morality, ethics, and intellectual pursuits are held in high esteem, paving the way for a more just, equitable, and prosperous future.
_____________________________________
The writer is News Editor of the Daily Sun.
Email: [email protected]