Morals and Values are the Foundations of Society

Morals and Values: The Foundations of Society

Childhood is a time in which parents embed most of our morals into us. Historically, parents have essentially been children’s only social interaction, and therefore, shape their children’s lives. This is important because most of what parents teach their children consists of what is “good” and what is “bad.” Parents give their children “time-outs” when they misbehave and reward them with new toys or sweets when they behave—a straightforward concept. This seems insignificant except this method of parenting forces children to believe what their parents believe; essentially instilling their morals and values in their children. Some principles commonly held by society—and most parents—stress the importance of religion, family, loyalty, and money. When comparing current societies to past societies or even societies in different regions, there are noticeable differences in the worth of these morals to the overall structure of the community. Art work is one mode societies utilize to express the central morals and values held at that particular time—or can be a method to criticize those morals and values.

During the Renaissance, family and religion upheld more significance. This is evident from observing and interpreting the artwork created during the time period. The Italian Renaissance, even though a time of enlightenment, was not as pleasurable as many people make it out to be. It was a time of doubt for the masses which led them to God—which are reflected in the artwork. The lowest class in society when the Renaissance commenced included artists; this would change as their overwhelming influence transformed society.

In 1405, at the beginning of this “rebirth” in Italy, Bicci di L...

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...nes, and television—essentially everywhere. It subconsciously teaches children what is “good” and what is “bad.” Art no longer only reveals the changes in society, but also encompasses the role of a parent—it too shapes the world.

Works Cited

Gladwell, Malcolm. Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking. New York: Little, Brown and Company, 2005.

“Jacques-Louis David: The Oath of the Horatii.” www.bc.edu. 10 Feb. 2004. The Trustees of Boston College. 27 Sep. 2006

Read, Hebert Edward, Sir. Discovering Art: The Illustrating Story of Art Through the Ages. Vol. 4. New York: Paulton, Eng., Purnell, 1964-1966. 5 vols.

“The Annunciation.” www.thewalters.org. 2006. The Walters Art Museum. 27 Sep. 2006