Monday, September 05, 2005
Asian Values
There is a recent call to teach Aussie values in schools to counter terrorism. However, none of the so-called leaders had ever defined clearly what exactly these values are, apart from a suggestion that we should study the life history of our past war heroes, such as the story of the Simpson and his donkey.
People often talked about the Aussie way of life like playing crickets, lying on the beach, holding a backyard barbeque or having a beer in one hand and watching ruby league on television in a pub. I believe all these are a part of the culture and lifestyle that people in this lucky country choose to have. I am doubtful that the choice of these lifestyles and participating in these activities, or worshipping of war heroes can guarantee the making of a better citizen.
For thousands of years, Asian people have been guided by a set of eight values and ethics laid by the great philosopher Confucius. The eight values are (1) loyalty to your country (2) fidelity and care to your parents (3) humanity and kindness (4) love and compassion (5) good mannerism (6) mateship and non-betrayal of friends (7) honesty and non corrupt (8) be humble and not bring shame to family and community. The code of ethic is that if you don’t like others to do certain act to you, then don’t mete out this same act to others.
There may also be other good values advocated by the many great thinkers. The Aussie concept of “Fair Go” is much valued provided it is practiced in all areas. We can teach good values in schools. But good values can only be enhanced through family upbringing and showing of good examples by our leaders
People often talked about the Aussie way of life like playing crickets, lying on the beach, holding a backyard barbeque or having a beer in one hand and watching ruby league on television in a pub. I believe all these are a part of the culture and lifestyle that people in this lucky country choose to have. I am doubtful that the choice of these lifestyles and participating in these activities, or worshipping of war heroes can guarantee the making of a better citizen.
For thousands of years, Asian people have been guided by a set of eight values and ethics laid by the great philosopher Confucius. The eight values are (1) loyalty to your country (2) fidelity and care to your parents (3) humanity and kindness (4) love and compassion (5) good mannerism (6) mateship and non-betrayal of friends (7) honesty and non corrupt (8) be humble and not bring shame to family and community. The code of ethic is that if you don’t like others to do certain act to you, then don’t mete out this same act to others.
There may also be other good values advocated by the many great thinkers. The Aussie concept of “Fair Go” is much valued provided it is practiced in all areas. We can teach good values in schools. But good values can only be enhanced through family upbringing and showing of good examples by our leaders
