A need to revitalize traditional Arab values

Saudi Gazette report Traditional Arab values such as respect for the elderly and parents, hospitality and patriotism have long been on the decline amid a rapidly modernizing society. Families play a pivotal role in instilling such values in children and help reinforce social unity and fabric of society. Al-Riyadh daily spoke to several experts who said in addition to families, the media and social media websites can also play a role in restoring and reviving values that have been the hallmark of Arab societies. Salman Al-Dawsari, a social activist who is interested in youth activities, blamed the media for the gradual decline of such values. “Some channels air TV shows that encourage the public to disrespect the elderly and cut ties with one’s family members. Viewers have become confused and disillusioned. But families, schools and society itself should take part of the blame. We need constructive programs that teach us and remind us of the good values passed down to us from our forefathers,” he explained. “Today, most young men and women regard these good values as relics of the past that should not be part of the future. Shockingly, some have called for getting rid of these values, which they regard as backward. The ministries of education and social affairs together with the media can join forces to re-instill these values in the public,” he said. Families Dr. Salih Al-Masnad, the director of the Arabic Union Catalog and the Saudi Digital Library, said only families could revive traditional values by inculcating them in their children’s minds. “Our old values call upon us to be tolerant and good citizens. We should not leave our children unattended when they watch TV, play games, surf the Internet or use social media websites. Schools and other civil institutions must focus on stressing the importance to children to open up to other civilizations and cultures and take the things that benefit them and are not against our religion,” he added. Good values Fahad Al-Ghanem, the director of supply at King Abdulaziz Public Library, who is also a social and cultural activist, believes good values transcend time and individual differences. He said the citizenry should be encouraged to embrace and defend such values because Islam encourages Muslims to embrace them. “Many young men and women do not care about these values and look out only for their interests and these are indicators of moral corruption,” he said. “For example, many students today do not have the same respect their predecessors, even ten years ago, had for teachers at school. Instead, our newspapers are full of stories of students assaulting their teachers. One might wonder how it has come to this and why students no longer have such respect,” he said. Al-Ghanem said the issue needs to be analyzed and studied in order to pinpoint the real reasons behind the drastic changes in students’ behaviors. “There should be a focus on the role Western media and its influence has played in this regard. Many young men and women nowadays boast about embracing and holding in high esteem values that are adopted by the Western world,” he added.