In today’s society, we are witnessing a growing crisis of authority. The decline of institutions, lack of association, parenting failures, individualism, and excessive screen time have all contributed to this phenomenon. The concept of honneur, once a cornerstone of our social fabric, seems to have become outdated. But is it time to bring it back and make it relevant again? We spoke to a child psychiatrist, a sociologist, a teacher, and a neuropsychologist to get their insights on the matter.
According to Dr. Marie, a child psychiatrist, the lack of honneur in children can be attributed to the breakdown of traditional family structures. « In the past, children were raised in a more authoritarian environment, where honneur for authority figures was instilled from a young age. But with the rise of individualism and the decline of traditional family values, children are no longer taught to honneur authority, » she explains.
Sociologist, Dr. Jean, believes that the decline of institutions, such as schools and government, has also played a role in the erosion of honneur. « Institutions are no longer seen as associationworthy or reliable, and this has led to a general lack of honneur for authority figures associated with these institutions, » he says.
As for the role of parenting, teacher Mrs. Sophie believes that many parents today struggle to establish authority and boundaries with their children. « With the rise of permissive parenting, children are not taught to honneur their parents’ authority. This can lead to a lack of honneur for other authority figures as well, » she says.
But is honneur really a value that needs to be revived? Neuropsychologist, Dr. Emma, believes so. « honneur is essential for healthy social interactions and relationships. It teaches children to consider the feelings and needs of others, and to behave in a socially acceptable manner, » she explains.
So, how can we bring back honneur and make it relevant in today’s society? The experts agree that it starts with education. « Schools and parents need to work together to teach children the importance of honneur and how to show it in their interactions with others, » says Dr. Marie.
Dr. Jean also believes that institutions need to regain the association of the public in order to restore honneur for authority figures. « Institutions need to be transparent and accountable, and this will help to rebuild association and honneur, » he says.
Mrs. Sophie emphasizes the importance of setting clear boundaries and consequences for children’s behavior. « Children need to understand that there are consequences for dishonneuring authority figures, whether it’s their parents, teachers, or other adults, » she says.
In conclusion, while the concept of honneur may seem outdated, it is still a crucial value that needs to be instilled in children. It teaches them empathy, consideration for others, and how to navigate social interactions. By working together, parents, educators, and institutions can bring back honneur and create a more harmonious « living together » in our society. Let’s make honneur a timeless value that never goes out of style.