Personal Resonance with Views on Culture and Ethics
Comparing Jane English’s perspective with Lin Yutang’s, I conclude that Yutang’s resonates more with my experience and gut feelings. Yutang emphasizes the importance of filial piety and the deep-rooted cultural values of respect and gratitude towards parents in Asian societies. Growing up in an Asian culture myself, these values were instilled in me from a young age, and I believe they play a crucial role in maintaining strong family bonds and social harmony.
While English argues that grown children don’t owe their parents anything, I find it difficult to agree (English, 1992). While it may be true that the language of “owing” can sometimes feel transactional, I believe there is an inherent responsibility to care for and support our parents as they age. In addition to repaying a debt, it’s also important to honor them for all the guidance, love, and support they have provided us throughout our lives.
Preferred Retirement Location Based on Elder Treatment
According to the articles, if I were to retire, I would choose to do so in Asia. The articles highlight Asian nations’ strong cultural emphasis on elder respect and care. Yutang describes the reverence and support given to older generations in China, where filial piety is deeply ingrained (Yutang, 1992). Yutang (1992) mentions that “the aged are treated with great reverence and are seldom left to suffer.”
Similarly, there is a significant societal emphasis on caring for and respecting the elderly in many other Asian nations, including Japan and Korea. This includes community initiatives, family assistance, and geriatric-specific healthcare services. While the U.S. also has systems for elderly care, the articles suggest that the cultural values and support networks for the elderly are more pronounced in Asian cultures.
Impact of Pop Culture Television on Family Values
Popular culture television shows like Family Guy, The Simpsons, or South Park can both erode and strengthen family values. They use satire and exaggerated scenarios to critique social issues, including family dynamics. This challenges traditional values and encourages critical thinking.
However, these shows can also normalize dysfunctional behaviors, undermining strong family bonds. Depicting disrespectful or dysfunctional family relationships as entertainment can devalue family values. The impact on values depends on viewers’ discernment and ability to separate entertainment from real-life values. Engaging critically with media and balancing entertainment and personal ethics is crucial.
References
English, J. (1992). What do grown children owe their parents? Aging and ethics: Philosophical problems in gerontology, 147-154.
Yutang, L. (1992). On growing old gracefully. Christina Sommers and Fred Sommers (Fort Worth: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1993), 751-757.