The young worship the West

From Bisnis Indonesia

We are facing many challenges in this era of globalization; these challenges exist in economics, politics, social matters and culture.

The young are vulnerable to the influence of alien cultures. Children like to copy what they see as admirable; they may take on the positive or the negative aspects of a different culture. It depends on those responsible for their upbringing.

I have noticed that our youngsters are infatuated with the West, in their ethics, food, clothing, lifestyle, relationships, independence, and drugs. Ecstasy is only one of the more immediate problems in this country.

There are several factors causing these social problems.

* The rapid flow of information and culture from the West.

* The declining intensity of religious education, ethics and morals, and insufficient parental authority.

* The growing trend towards hedonism and consumerism, and a strong desire for material things. Status seems to depend on how rich a person is.

* The law is weak and the way we deal with criminals is inadequate.

We should be astute and intelligent around foreign cultures, which are impossible to resist in this era of globalization.

Parents should revive their influence, and education to critical, creative, alternative and innovative thought should be initiated.

Thus the nation would be strengthened. It is said that the young are the future of the nation. Determined and sturdy they will write the nation's history.

DESI IRANI

Ciledug, West Java