1. ‘Respect for elders’ in Māori culture
2. Decline of ‘respect for elders’ in Māori society.

By Trend News Line 2024-02-05 06:39:47.

Respect for Elders in Māori Culture appears to be waning

February 5, 2024 – In a recent tweet, user Tahi (@TahiBlue) expressed concern over the apparent decline of the “respect your elders” value within Māori culture. This traditional principle, which has long been deeply ingrained in Māori society, seems to be losing its significance in contemporary times.

The Māori people, the indigenous Polynesian population of New Zealand, have a rich cultural heritage that places great importance on the wisdom and guidance of their elders. Historically, respect for elders has served as a cornerstone of Māori society, shaping their values, customs, and social interactions.

However, recent societal shifts and the influence of Western culture have brought about changes that seem to be eroding this traditional value. The cause behind this decline is yet to be determined, as there could be multiple factors contributing to this shift.

One possible reason for the weakening of this value is the increasing individualism and focus on personal freedoms in modern society. As younger generations prioritize their own needs and desires, the traditional practice of deferring to the wisdom and guidance of elders may be seen as restrictive or outdated.

Additionally, the rapid pace of globalization and the increasing exposure to diverse cultures may have diluted the emphasis on traditional Māori values, including respect for elders. The younger generation may be adopting more globalized perspectives that prioritize individualism over collectivism.

Furthermore, the impact of historical and ongoing colonization cannot be overlooked. The colonization of New Zealand by European settlers has had a profound effect on Māori culture, causing cultural disconnection and loss of traditional values. The erosion of respect for elders could be seen as a consequence of this historical trauma.

While the tweet suggests that the “death” of this value has occurred, it is important to note that this may be an exaggeration. While there might be a decline in the prominence of this traditional value, it is unlikely to have completely vanished. It is important to recognize that cultural values are fluid and can evolve over time.

Efforts are being made within Māori communities and by cultural preservation organizations to revive and reinforce the importance of respecting elders. Education, cultural events, and intergenerational activities are being employed to bridge the generational gap and reestablish the significance of this value.

As of now, it is unclear how this decline in respect for elders will impact Māori society in the long term. However, it is crucial to address this issue and work towards preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Māori people, including the value of respecting their elders.

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Source : @TahiBlue

Guess the ‘respect your elders’ part of Māori culture has died.

— Tahi (@TahiBlue) February 5, 2024

1. “Respect your elders” Māori culture
2. Māori culture and the importance of respecting elders.