Ethics

Undesirable Values Prevalent Among Educated Indians

In contemporary India, despite a rising level of education and awareness, several undesirable values and attitudes persist among educated individuals. These values often contradict the principles of equality, democracy, and social justice. Understanding these values, along with recent examples, is crucial for UPSC Mains aspirants to provide a well-rounded analysis.

1. Gender Discrimination and Patriarchal Attitudes

Gender Bias in Professional Settings: Despite education, many educated Indians continue to exhibit gender discrimination in professional settings. For instance, women in corporate sectors often face biases in promotions and salary, a reflection of deeply ingrained patriarchal values. Recent reports have highlighted how women still face barriers in climbing the corporate ladder, despite having similar qualifications and experience as their male counterparts.

Cultural Preferences and Gender Roles: Educated individuals sometimes perpetuate traditional gender roles, especially in familial contexts. For example, even among educated families, there is often an expectation for women to prioritize household responsibilities over their careers, as seen in various media reports and surveys.

2. Caste-Based Discrimination

Subtle Casteism in Social Interactions: Caste-based discrimination continues to persist subtly among educated individuals. While overt forms of casteism have decreased, subtle prejudices and biases still exist. For instance, a recent study found that job applicants with names suggesting lower caste affiliations often face discrimination during the hiring process, even in progressive sectors.

Caste and Marriage Preferences: The preference for caste-based marriage alliances remains strong among educated families. Despite the emphasis on education and modernity, caste considerations are still a significant factor in marital decisions, as reflected in matrimonial advertisements and societal attitudes.

3. Prejudices Against Minority Communities

Religious Intolerance: Educated Indians are not immune to religious intolerance. Recent instances, such as the controversy surrounding the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC), have highlighted how educated individuals sometimes support or perpetuate divisive and exclusionary policies. Despite having access to education, prejudices against minority communities persist, influencing opinions and actions.

Discrimination Against LGBTQ+ Individuals: Attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals often remain conservative, even among educated circles. Although there has been progress, recent instances of social and legal challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals highlight the continuing stigma and discrimination.

4. Materialism and Consumerism

Focus on Wealth and Status: An increased emphasis on material success and status symbols can be observed among educated Indians. This materialistic approach often leads to the perpetuation of social hierarchies and exclusion of those who do not conform to certain economic standards. Recent trends in social media, where individuals showcase their wealth and lifestyle, further reinforce this value.

Consumerism and Environmental Impact: The growing consumerism among educated individuals contributes to environmental degradation. Despite awareness of sustainability issues, the desire for luxury goods and excessive consumption persists, reflecting a disconnect between educational knowledge and practical, environmentally responsible behavior.

Conclusion

Despite higher levels of education, several undesirable values persist among educated Indians, including gender discrimination, casteism, religious intolerance, and materialism. Addressing these issues requires ongoing reflection, education, and social reform to align personal values with the principles of equality, democracy, and social justice. For UPSC Mains aspirants, analyzing these issues with recent examples provides a comprehensive understanding of the societal dynamics at play.