Do Education system influences personality ?

 

Do Education system influences personality ?

People can acquire information, critical thinking talents, and problem-solving skills through education. People acquire decision-making, abstract thought, and information analysis skills through formal education. Personality attributes like creativity, intelligence, and openness to new experiences can be shaped by this cognitive development.

Social standards, ethical principles, and cultural values are frequently instilled through education. Through education, one can be exposed to a variety of concepts, philosophies, and worldviews that might impact one's moral compass, sense of self, and beliefs.

Educational environments are social settings where people connect with classmates, teachers, and mentors, whether they are in schools, colleges, or universities. These encounters have the power to mould social skills, communication philosophies, and attitudes towards cooperation, authority, and teamwork—all of which have an impact on the formation of personalities.

Education is a major factor in forming an individual's identity and self-concept. Academic achievements and setbacks, peer and teacher comments, and educational experiences all have an impact on how people view themselves and their skills, which in turn affects personality qualities like resilience, self-efficacy, and self-esteem.

Aspirations and job decisions are frequently influenced by education. As people work towards their academic and professional objectives, they may acquire characteristics like ambition, tenacity, and flexibility that ultimately mould their entire personality.

Educational establishments frequently offer exposure to a variety of cultures, ethnicities, financial backgrounds, and viewpoints. Socialising with people from other backgrounds can increase tolerance, empathy, and worldview, all of which can have an impact on personality qualities including acceptance, empathy, and openness to others.

All things considered, education is a potent socialising tool that can mould many facets of personality through stimulating the mind, transferring morals and values, encouraging social interactions, affecting one's self-perception, and directing desires for one's profession. Indeed, education has a big impact on personality in a lot of different ways.

UNDERSTANDING OUR IDENTITY AND PERSONALITY :

 Our identity:

Most people have either a social security card or an identity card. We also carry a visiting card with information on our employment history, credentials, and status. We can practice a particular religion at home, or we may practice a different branch of the same religion. We are also masculine or female, a husband or wife, a parent or son. Our ties with different people and institutions shape who we are. All of our relationships with other people are profoundly impacted by our knowledge of the mentioned identities.

According to Vedanta, this is not who you really are. A person is only a human being when all of the mentioned identities are taken away from him. He is on equal with every other organism. He uses his senses to perceive the world and experiences happiness and sadness, just like all other living things. His physical body is supported by an energy system that is derived from his food intake. His five senses each detect five distinct objects, which are then transmitted to his mind for processing and compilation. The "I" within him is content with this process.

 Meaning of Personality:

The term "personality" describes the particular arrangements of ideas, emotions, and behaviours that characterise a person and indicate how they choose to engage with the world. It includes a person's persistent characteristics, attitudes, values, and behaviours that are largely constant throughout time and in various contexts.

 Numerous theories and frameworks, such as the following, can be used to understand personality:

    • Trait Theories:These theories concentrate on defining and classifying particular traits.

    • Psychodynamic Theories:Stress the importance of early experiences and unconscious processes.

    • Humanistic Theories:  Emphasise the significance of personal development and self-actualization.

    • Social-Cognitive theories: Analyse how a person's surroundings and cognitive functions affect their behaviour.

Everything being considered, personality is a complex, multifaceted idea that greatly influences how people perceive the world, make decisions, interact with others, and live their lives.

 Evolution of the body-mind complex

Our Vedic sages shared fascinating facts and conjectured about the origins of the physical body. It is consciousness that takes on various forms, from powerful beasts to grass blades. According to the Upanishad, the Supreme Being revealed as the five elements: fire, water, earth, air, and space.

Three traits or inclinations are attributed to the creative force, sometimes known as "The Nature." They are known as the guna(s), specifically tamas, rajas, and sattva. This hypothesis is supported by a substantial body of empirical observation. Three tendencies can be seen in human nature. Some people are introspective, calm, quiet, and happy. Some have an aggressive, avaricious, and dominant personality. There are those who lack initiative, are slothful, lethargic, and uninteresting. Though the psychologists may refer to them as personality types, the ancient sages made this observation.

All human behaviour, regardless of its quality, is the outcome of the three gunas. This is also evident in animals. While some are aggressive and restless, others are calm and docile. Because of the three previously mentioned qualities, it is also found that the food we eat affects our thinking. Certain foods are both calming and beneficial to health. Some result in bodily heat and associated changes, while others lead to mental dullness. Only these kinds of foods are the derivatives of the depressants. The three dispositions or tendencies in everything in the cosmos were noted by the sages.

According to the Bhagavad Gita, all that exists in the cosmos is a result of the three above tendencies. The origin of all things in the universe is nature, also known as Prakrti. The diversity of the universe arises from the endless combinations of all three of these guna(s). The elements that we are familiar with—earth, water, fire, air, and space—are the first to result from this. Further, the three gunas are also present in these five elements. The five elements are the only substances that make up everything, life or non-living.

The sattva component of the elements evolves into the mind and senses of all animals, including man. The rajas component of the elements evolves into the organs of action (hands, feet and other limbs) of all animals. The tamas component of the elements evolves into the gross elements around us.

We have five senses, each sense able to cognize only one sense object. The nose can only notice smell, the eye can only notice form of an object and so on. The mind is able to cognize all the five sense objects. Senses and mind are said to evolve as follows. It is stated that the sense of hearing evolves from the sattva component of space. It is stated that the sensation of touch develops from the sattva component of air.It is stated that the sense of sight develops from the sattva component of fire (fire also gives light). It is thought that the taste buds develop from the sattva component of water. It is stated that the sense of smell develops from the sattva component of earth. It is stated that the mind arises from the collective sattva component of all the five elements. The five different kinds of sensory signals that the five senses provide to the mind can be compiled by the mind.

Four levels are used by Vedanta to study the phases of mind. Manas is the mental stage of basic cognition, while buddhi is the mental stage of analysis of that cognition. At this point, a concept of "I" and "I have known this" exist. The concept of "I," or "ahangkara," is the name of this stage. "Cittam" refers to the remembering and subsequent reliving of an event.

The Bhagavad Gita provides a summary of the information above regarding the relationship between consciousness and the physical body. The Upanishads and later Vedic writings go into considerable length regarding the same topic. We know that there is another vital component, the life force, in addition to the mind and senses. We refer to this as Prana-Shakti. Without breathing, living things cannot exist. It is stated that the body's air system is its vital force.

Personality - natured or nurtured :

There is a complicated and ongoing argument about whether personality is predominantly nurtured (formed by environmental influences including upbringing, society, and experiences) or natured (genetically inherited).

Nature (Hereditary Factors):  There is a strong genetic basis for personality traits, according to some studies. Research on twins and adoption has demonstrated that identical twins, who have almost all of their genes in common, typically have more alike personalities than fraternal twins, who have only half of their genes in common. This shows that personality qualities including conscientiousness, neuroticism, and extraversion are influenced by genetics. Furthermore, specific genes linked to particular personality traits have been found thanks to developments in behavioural genetics.

Nurture (Environmental Factors):  However, the environment has a big impact on how a person's personality develops. A person's personality is shaped by a variety of factors, including upbringing, parental practices, cultural influences, peer interactions, education, and socioeconomic status. Children who grow up in loving, caring surroundings, for instance, may acquire qualities like empathy and emotional stability, whereas children who experience negative events, such trauma or neglect, may acquire maladaptive personality traits.

The relationship between nature and nurture is actually more nuanced than this straightforward duality suggests. The majority of modern psychologists acknowledge that personality is shaped by a combination of environmental factors and genetic predispositions. This viewpoint, which is sometimes referred to as the "interactionist" or "biopsychosocial" paradigm, recognises the interaction of hereditary, environmental, and personal elements in the formation of personality.

While genetics contribute to predispositions and certain traits, environmental factors play a crucial role in determining how these traits manifest and develop over time. Personality is best understood as the result of a dynamic interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental influences.

INTEGRATING THE PRINCIPLES AND TEACHINGS OF VEDANTA INTO OUR LIVES IN THE DIGITAL ERA :

 Navigating the intricacies of contemporary technology and online interactions can be made easier by applying the concepts and teachings of Vedanta to our life in the digital age. In the era of digital technology, we can connect with the Vedic philosophy in the following ways:

Practice Mindfulness: The teachings of Vedanta place a strong emphasis on the cultivation of self-awareness and mindfulness, which can be especially important in the digital age when there are many distractions. We can learn to be aware of our thoughts and feelings, live in the present now, and use technology in a purposeful and thoughtful way by practicing mindfulness. In the era of digital devices, mindfulness can be promoted through exercises like yoga, meditation, and prayer.

Seek Moderation and equilibrium: A key idea in Hindu philosophy is sattva, or equilibrium. Using digital gadgets and online platforms in moderation and balance is crucial in the digital age, since technology has the potential to quickly take up our time and attention. A sense of harmony and balance in our lives can be preserved by establishing limits, taking breaks from screens, and giving priority to in-person connections.

Practice Non-Attachment: The philosophy of Vedanta is called vairagya, and it entails letting go of attachments and cravings that cause pain. In the digital age, non-attachment can help develop a sense of contentment and inner peace. This is because social media and online interactions can create feelings of comparison, envy, and FOMO (fear of missing out). Rather than seeking validation or fulfillment from external sources such as social media likes or followers, we can focus on cultivating inner contentment and self-acceptance.

Develop Connection and Compassion: Vedanta places a strong emphasis on the necessity of compassion (karuna) towards other beings as well as the interconnection of all beings. Developing compassion and empathy in our online contacts can help promote a sense of connection and unity in the digital age, where online connections can occasionally be impersonal or divisive. Online communities can become more sympathetic and peaceful through acts of kindness, encouraging words, and civil discourse.

Accept the Wisdom of the Scriptures: The Vedic literature, including the Upanishads, the Vedas, and the Bhagavad Gita, provide ageless knowledge and counsel that is relevant to our lives in the digital age. Examining these texts and considering their lessons can help us understand how to deal with moral conundrums, discover our purpose in life, and foster spiritual development in the digital age.

Serve Others and Engage in Seva: Vedanta places a strong emphasis on the value of seva, or selfless service, as a way to advance spiritually and improve society. Practicing seva in the digital era can involve using technology to promote charitable causes, exchange information and resources, and create communities that serve the greater good. This is because internet platforms offer chances for connection and collaboration.

Overall, we can develop awareness, balance, compassion, and spiritual progress by incorporating the ideas and teachings of Vedanta into our lives in the digital age. This will result in a more meaningful and rewarding connection both with technology and with ourselves.

MOVING TOWARDS DIGITAL WELL BEING AND ITS IMPORTANCE

 When discussing the state of one's physical, mental, and emotional balance in relation to using digital technology, the term "digital wellbeing" is used. It includes methods, routines, and approaches meant to encourage a positive interaction between digital tools, platforms, and online activities. Digital wellbeing is critical for preserving general health and quality of life in the modern world, when digital technology permeates every aspect of our everyday existence. Here's why it's important:

Overuse of digital gadgets can result in physical health concerns such musculoskeletal disorders, eye strain, and irregular sleep patterns, as well as sedentary behaviour. To reduce these hazards, prioritising digital wellbeing entails establishing limits on screen usage, taking frequent breaks, and participating in physical activity away from screens.

Over-reliance on digital devices can have a number of negative effects on mental health, such as elevated levels of stress, anxiety, or depression, as well as emotions of loneliness or inadequacy brought on by social media comparison. In order to preserve mental wellness, practicing digital wellbeing entails being aware of one's online activity, establishing boundaries to avoid digital overload, and asking for help when necessary.

 A vast spectrum of feelings, from happiness and connection to annoyance and rage, can be evoked by digital encounters. Building wholesome digital relationships, encouraging pleasant online experiences, and being aware of how digital interactions and content impact emotional state are all part of cultivating digital wellbeing.

Digital distractions that are too frequent can affect focus, productivity, and cognitive function. Setting priorities for digital wellbeing entails putting techniques in place to control distractions, streamline digital processes, and keep one's attention on important assignments and objectives.

Digital technology facilitates contact and connection, but if not handled carefully, it may also cause emotions of loneliness and alienation. Developing genuine relationships, encouraging meaningful interactions both offline and online, and striking a balance between digital and in-person contact are all components of digital health.

A vital component of digital wellbeing is guaranteeing online safety and protecting personal information. A better and more secure digital experience can be achieved by following basic digital hygiene, being aware of privacy settings, and keeping an eye out for any online risks.

Gaining digital literacy abilities enables people to critically assess information, use technology with confidence, and make well-informed decisions. Promoting digital literacy and giving people the tools they need to take use of technology's advantages while reducing its risks are two aspects of digital wellbeing.

In today's digitally driven society, attaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle is contingent upon one's level of digital wellness. A happy and satisfying relationship with digital technology can be developed by placing a high priority on one's physical and mental well-being, emotional stability, productivity, social connection, privacy, and digital literacy.