“If a country is to be corruption free and become a nation of beautiful minds, I strongly feel there are three key societal members who can make a difference. They are the father, the mother and the teacher.” - A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Analyse.

The Role of the Father

Traditionally, the father has been seen as the provider and disciplinarian, but his role extends to instilling values of honesty, hard work, and responsibility. A father who demonstrates ethical conduct in his personal and professional life serves as a powerful role model. He can actively discourage corrupt practices and encourage critical thinking by engaging in open discussions about ethical dilemmas.

• Example: A father refusing to offer a bribe to expedite a service, even at personal inconvenience, teaches his children the importance of integrity.
• Impact: This fosters a sense of justice and discourages the normalization of corruption.

The Role of the Mother

The mother often plays a crucial role in early childhood development and is instrumental in shaping emotional intelligence and empathy. She is often the first teacher of values like compassion, kindness, and respect for others. A mother can nurture a child’s curiosity and encourage a love for learning.

• Example: A mother actively engaging in discussions about social issues and encouraging her children to volunteer for community service fosters a sense of social responsibility.
• Impact: This cultivates empathy and a desire to contribute positively to society, counteracting selfish tendencies that can fuel corruption.

The Role of the Teacher

Teachers are not merely instructors but mentors who shape young minds. They have the power to instill critical thinking skills, ethical reasoning, and a sense of civic duty. Beyond academic knowledge, teachers can impart values of integrity, fairness, and respect for the rule of law.

• Example: A teacher using case studies of ethical failures (e.g., Enron scandal) to discuss the consequences of dishonesty and the importance of ethical leadership.
• Impact: This equips students with the tools to navigate ethical challenges and make informed decisions.

Limitations and the Broader Context

While Kalam’s focus on these three figures is valuable, it’s crucial to acknowledge that societal change is more complex. Peer groups, media, political systems, and economic structures also exert significant influence. A corrupt political system can undermine the values instilled by parents and teachers. Similarly, a lack of economic opportunity can incentivize corrupt practices.

Societal Member	Key Contribution	Potential Limitations
Father	Instilling honesty, responsibility, and work ethic	Influence limited by time constraints, personal biases, and societal pressures
Mother	Nurturing empathy, compassion, and a love for learning	Influence limited by societal expectations, access to education, and economic constraints
Teacher	Developing critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and civic duty	Influence limited by curriculum constraints, overcrowded classrooms, and systemic issues within the education system

Furthermore, the changing family structure and the increasing influence of digital media present new challenges.