Determinants of Values

 Determinants of Values: The Role of Ecological and Environmental Influences

Determinants of Values 

In an era marked by environmental crises, climate change, and declining ecological balance, the role of values in shaping responsible human behaviour has become more important than ever. Among the many determinants that influence human values, ecological or environmental influences play a crucial role in nurturing respect for nature and promoting sustainable living. Education, when integrated with ecological values, becomes a powerful tool for building environmentally conscious and ethically responsible individuals.

Understanding Values and Value Education

Values are deeply held beliefs and principles that individuals consider precious, worthwhile, and important in life. According to the Oxford Dictionary, values refer to standards or principles of great worth, while sociologist Cuber (1962) defines values as cherished ideas that reflect judgments about the relative importance of things. These definitions highlight that values guide human choices, behaviour, and attitudes.

When education is combined with values, it transforms into value education, a holistic approach that goes beyond academic knowledge. Value education aims to develop character, integrity, moral judgment, and social responsibility. It prepares individuals not only for professional success but also for ethical living and meaningful contributions to society.

Determinants of Values with Special Reference to Ecological Influences

Human values are shaped by multiple determinants such as psychological, social, economic, cultural, educational, and environmental factors. Among these, ecological or environmental influences are increasingly significant in today’s world. They shape how individuals perceive their relationship with nature and how responsibly they use natural resources.

Ecological values teach individuals to distinguish right from wrong in their interaction with the environment. They foster a sense of responsibility toward nature and emphasize that peaceful and sustainable living is possible only when humans live in harmony with their surroundings. These values remind us that environmental degradation is not just a scientific issue but a moral one.

Ecological Values and Indian Philosophical Thought

Indian philosophy has long emphasized harmony between humans and nature. Nature is not viewed merely as a resource for exploitation but as a living system deserving respect. True ecological values go beyond the material use of natural resources and promote coexistence with all forms of life.

Education plays a vital role in strengthening these values by cultivating sensitivity towards environmental protection, conservation, and sustainability. Ecological values also include the preservation of ancient architecture, art, and culture, recognizing them as part of humanity’s environmental and cultural heritage.

Role of Education in Preserving Ecological Values

Educational institutions serve as ideal spaces for nurturing ecological values among learners. Schools and colleges can actively promote environmental responsibility through both curricular and co-curricular activities. Initiatives such as exhibitions on pollution control, tree plantation drives like Van Mahotsava, cleanliness campaigns, workshops, and expert lectures on environmental issues help students develop awareness and practical skills.

Additionally, activities like maintaining cleanliness in school premises, organizing environmental awareness processions, and encouraging students to adopt eco-friendly habits foster lifelong pro-environmental behaviour. Such experiential learning ensures that ecological values are not merely theoretical concepts but lived practices.

Developing Responsible and Environmentally Conscious Citizens

Ecological influences shape values by creating awareness of the deep interdependence between humans and nature. They inspire values such as conservation, sustainability, compassion for living beings, and responsibility toward future generations. When students internalize these values, they are more likely to act as responsible citizens who contribute to environmental protection and social harmony.

Conclusion

Ecological and environmental influences are powerful determinants of human values in the modern world. Through value-based education, individuals learn to respect nature, protect the environment, and live sustainably. By integrating ecological values into education, society can nurture morally responsible individuals who understand that peace, sustainability, and human well-being are deeply interconnected. Ultimately, fostering ecological values is not just about saving the environment—it is about shaping a peaceful, ethical, and sustainable future for humanity.

References

Cuber, J. F. (1962). Sociology: A synopsis of principles. Appleton-Century-Crofts.

Karoli, V. (2015). Value and peace education. Thakur Publication Pvt. Ltd., Lucknow.

National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). (2019). Environmental education in schools. NCERT.

UNESCO. (2020). Education for sustainable development: A roadmap. UNESCO Publishing.

Government of India. (2011). National curriculum framework. Ministry of Education.

Alterra Institute. (n.d.). What is value education? https://alterainstitute.com/blog/what-is-value-education/

Tamil Nadu Teachers Education Committee. (n.d.). Value education. https://www.tntec.ac.in/pdf/value.pdf

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