Societal transitions from poverty to the middle class are characterized by fundamental shifts in values and priorities. From education to the role of traditional authority, the psychological and social implications are far-reaching. Renowned social scientist Ron Inglehart’s research challenges the notion of globalization as a homogenizing force. His findings reveal that values are actually diverging globally. In societies riddled with poverty and uncertainty, traditional sources of authority such as family and religion provide stability. As wealth spreads and individuals gain security, they prioritize personal fulfillment, critical thinking, and self-expression. One key contribution is the “tradition-secular” axis which measures influence from customary authority versus secular beliefs.
By applying Inglehart’s framework to countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh, we can observe the complex factors that shape their societies today. Despite sharing a common history as former parts of Pakistan, these nations have taken divergent paths since Bangladesh gained independence in 1971. As a result, they now exhibit distinct cultural and political realities.
Pakistan, in spite of experiencing elements of modernization and industrialization, has observed an intensification of traditional, survival-focused values. This trend can be attributed to the persistent socioeconomic and political challenges etched within the country’s fabric. These challenges perpetuate a pervasive sense of insecurity amongst the Pakistani populace, consequently reinforcing adherence to traditional societal norms and institutions as a coping mechanism. The existential precarity that casts a long shadow on Pakistanis’ daily lives is reflected in the unyielding importance they attach to survival, boosting the allure of established tradition and diminishing the venture into more secular-rational thought and self-expressive values.
In contrast, Bangladesh presents an alternative trajectory. Despite similar beginnings, the country has gradually inclined towards secular-rational and self-expression values. Beneath the surface of these societal changes lie stable political governance, consistent economic growth, and significant advancements in education and healthcare. These developments foster a heightened sense of security, prompting a greater emphasis on individual agency and autonomy while also fostering an increased engagement with rational discourse.
The decrease in trust observed among Islamic countries, dropping from 32% in 1998 to just 15% in 2022, is part of a larger global trend towards individualism and a departure from collective traditional values. However, it’s important to note that this trend does not manifest uniformly across all Islamic nations due to various social, economic, and political influences. The Gallup’s Poll of the Islamic World reveals that, in Pakistan, there is a prevailing sentiment that Western nations show little interest in improving coexistence with the Islamic world, aligning with a broader skepticism observed in surveyed countries. Noteworthy is Turkey, where respondents credit the West with an interest in improving relations, presenting a unique exception to the prevailing sentiment.
The shift towards individualism and secular-rational values reflects the distinct challenges and opportunities faced by Islamic countries within the broader context of global transformations. As these nations continue to evolve over time so too will their societal values and cultural norms.
