Research on the Education of Adolescent Values

Author: Liu Jiliang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-05-01
Features: In the late 1970s, China entered a period of social transformation. The nation focused on economic development, carrying out large-scale modernization efforts while reforming its economic and political systems. Construction, reform, and opening up brought about significant societal changes, causing intense shocks to values: some traditional values needed to be abandoned, while new value standards required to be rebuilt in line with the current situation. The transformation of values affected all members of society, but it was particularly evident among the younger generation, who found themselves in a state of conflict. This conflict prompted reflection and progress, while also driving the reconstruction of values. Liu Jiliang systematically collected materials on this topic. These materials reflect the progress of China's younger generation in reshaping their values. After years of exploration, a consensus has gradually formed on what kind of correct values Chinese youth should uphold. Liu Jiliang lists the following in his book: the establishment of socialist ideals; the cultivation of patriotic spirit; the fostering of scientific spirit; the nurturing of humanistic spirit; and the development of aesthetic awareness. These are noteworthy aspects that should become the dominant values of society. However, values are inherently subjective, and diversity within unity is normal. It is essential to allow for the existence of diverse values and to permit individuals to pursue their own meaningful lives. The very purpose of value education is to guide the younger generation in establishing correct values and motivating them to seek a purposeful life. There are many issues to explore in this area, which need to be gradually resolved on the basis of accumulated experience, thereby forming a more systematic theory.