The Shift in Heroes and Societal Values
Today, this moment in nature provides a chance to reflect on some central themes that shape our modern society. During a conversation with a passerby, the question arises about how life and the peace of the surroundings have changed over time. This discussion leads to the thought that today’s world differs greatly from the past, particularly in terms of values like tolerance and freedom.
1. The Shift in Societal Hero Images
Today, the concept of heroes has shifted dramatically. In the past, strong and courageous warriors, endowed with bravery, inspired and guided people. Legends like Siegfried with his sword Balmung or King Arthur with Excalibur exemplified heroes who not only embodied strength but also inner values. These heroes were real role models, grounded in our reality, helping people navigate life’s challenges.
In modern media, however, the image of a hero is increasingly portrayed through supernatural figures with superpowers and unhuman abilities. Hollywood shows us heroes who no longer fight to solve real issues but engage in battles within fictional universes against monsters and aliens. This new type of hero is often far removed from people’s real-life experiences.
2. Seven Principles of Values and Heroism
Within today’s society, seven principles can be identified that define the shift in values and the changing perception of heroism:
1. Value Shift: Former values like courage and bravery have been increasingly replaced by tolerance.
2. Hero Images: Traditional hero images are giving way to a pop culture focused on supernatural heroes.
3. Indifference: Society tends to fall into a kind of indifference.
4. Myths and Cultural Narratives: Stories and myths are losing their influence.
5. Superheroes and Hollywood: Fiction is increasingly dominated by Hollywood superheroes.
6. International Power Shifts: The significance of the BRICS nations and the push for a multipolar world is becoming evident.
7. Cyclical Societal Development: Strong times create weak people and vice versa; a cycle that can be viewed as a societal phenomenon.
3. The Western Values Under Pressure
It becomes clear that the so-called Western values are under pressure. This cultural shift, viewed by many as a decline in Western values, is often associated with a loss of faith and role model character. In particular, tolerance, once a symbol of openness, is now often interpreted as weakness. One wonders if it’s possible to continue accepting everything without losing one’s own values.
An anecdote at the end captures this thought: While strong times produce strong people, weak times often bring forth weaker individuals. Today’s challenges, therefore, are seen as a litmus test for Western values. The heroes of the past had their own role and strength, yet society must now ask itself how to create new heroes that are relevant to contemporary life.