Moral education in multicultural societies: From the perspective of family and neighbour relationships

Abstract

Promoting social cohesion and harmonious coexistence is imperative within the context of human diversity. Navigating the complexities of communal living requires a moral pursuit of understanding and fostering interpersonal connections. Due to our society's growing diversity, these connections are more vital than ever. Fostering closer bonds among people is essential to overcome social disagreements, particularly in multicultural societies where diverse values and norms intersect. This research explores moral education in the context of diverse religious and cultural settings, focusing on how family and neighbour relationships contribute to individual moral development. By examining these fundamental social units, the research aims to unravel the intricacies of moral education aiming to enhance understanding and inform educational policy.

From a critical realist perspective, this study uses a mixed-methods approach, gathering data through a survey of 196 participants and conducting in-depth interviews with 12 individuals. This methodology allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the topic, combining quantitative insights with qualitative depth. The critical realism approach provided a robust analytical lens to interpret the findings, considering both the observable and underlying factors that may influence moral education.

Key findings from the study reveal a two-dimensional understanding of the concept of family and emphasise the crucial role of family relationships in shaping an individual's moral and character development. Furthermore, the study highlights the profound influence of recognition in interpersonal relationships, both within the family and with neighbours. This aspect of recognition plays an important role in how individuals interact and develop within their social spheres. Finally, the research offers valuable insights into the role of family and neighbour relationships in moral education, contributing to the discourse on educational policy in multicultural societies and underlining the need for inclusive and empathetic approaches in educational settings.