These days, and in recent history, the call for system change has become a constant topic in our conversations. Today, we are more determined than ever to use our votes to shape the change we desire.
Change, however, can be interpreted in many ways, and one thing is certain: expectations vary from person to person. Yet, when we come together, these individual aspirations can align into shared goals for change. In the context of transforming a country’s system, it’s reasonable to assume that the common aim is a progressive shift; one that, in essence, improves the quality of life for everyone.
Can changing a government or a president alone bring about the change we so desperately seek? The answer isn’t straightforward. While institutional change is one factor, it’s only part of a much larger equation. A true system change is the result of numerous interconnected elements, including shifts in culture, changes in individual attitudes and behaviours, and even global influences. These layers of change work together to create lasting transformation, far beyond what a single leadership change can achieve.
Free of corruption
According to Social Cognitive Theory, people learn by observing and imitating others. According to this, if corruption is seen as a common or accepted practice, individuals are more likely to engage in it themselves. This reinforces the idea that a personal shift in attitude is necessary to address corruption. Promoting honest and ethical behaviour through role models and positive reinforcement is essential. Without visible examples of integrity at all levels, from leadership to everyday citizens, the expectation of a corruption-free society will remain out of reach.
‘Corruption-free’ is one of the most common demands when calling for political change, and it remains a widespread accusation against past leaders. But can a new political leader eliminate corruption entirely? It’s highly unlikely, if it’s only their personal mission. While policies and government strategies are crucial, addressing corruption requires a shift in attitude at every level of society.
From a tuk-tuk driver overcharging a passenger and someone hiding income to avoid taxes, to a baker selling underweight or substandard bread or a vendor using artificial substances to make vegetables look fresh – the list of everyday corruption is endless. The real question is whether change should start from the top down or the bottom up. Regardless, without a personal shift in people’s attitudes toward dishonesty, the expectation of a corruption-free society will never be fulfilled.
Economic justice
Another common demand is for a higher minimum wage and better working conditions to address income inequality, essentially, to reduce the gap between the rich and the poor. While government policies are certainly needed to tackle these issues, is that enough?
Beyond policies, structural changes are necessary in how wealth is distributed, businesses operate, and labour is valued. Education, access to opportunities, and individual empowerment are critical in addressing these deeper issues. Simply raising wages won’t create lasting solutions without addressing these underlying factors. A more holistic approach is needed, and this applies at the personal level too. If you employ others, whether it’s a domestic helper or someone working on your land, ensure you provide fair wages, benefits, and a positive work environment.
Treating workers ethically sets an example and contributes to reducing inequality on a larger scale. Supporting businesses that uphold fair practices also plays a role in promoting responsible, sustainable practices that help bridge income gaps.
Equal rights
Another dream we often envision when discussing social change is equal rights and opportunities for all regardless of gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or disability. At present, we see politicians addressing these concerns in their speeches, manifestos, and advertisements.
While social justice and equality certainly require government policies, they also depend more on attitude shifts than on rules and regulations alone. Even when such policies are in place, without a positive shift in attitudes, it becomes challenging to effectively implement them.
For example, someone demanding equal pay for women in the workplace but expecting their wife to manage all household duties and child-rearing wouldn’t truly be supporting equality. Likewise, someone praising a leader for supporting equal rights for people with disabilities but refusing to hire a young woman due to concerns about her potential to marry or become pregnant isn’t fostering real change.
This is also applicable to an individual who is willing to pay someone on a transplant list to get that spot for themselves. Even parents who support sexual freedom policies but oppose teaching sex education in schools are contributing to the very barriers they claim to want removed.
True change depends heavily on personal attitudes, not just policy changes. Without aligning personal actions with these broader demands for equality, the changes we seek will remain out of reach.
Cultural change
A common criticism politicians get during their campaigns is that they are attempting to alter our culture and traditions. To explore this, it’s important to first understand what culture really is. Culture encompasses not only traditions but also the ideas, customs, and social behaviours of a particular people or society.
Sometimes, a stagnant culture can slow the progress toward desired changes. If our cultural norms do not support ethics, fairness, equality, and other values we are striving for, clinging to those traditions can hinder our progress. Embracing cultural evolution, when it aligns with these values, can be essential for achieving meaningful change and fostering a society that upholds the principles we seek. This is the summary of our entire discussion in this article.
It is also important to note that these are just a few common issues we discuss, but they are not the only ones. When we call for systemic or social change, it’s crucial to remember that such change often begins with altering ourselves. Good things don’t simply fall from the sky, and change doesn’t come without effort.
If we demand change, we must be prepared to bear its cost, contribute our part, and embrace the consequences of the changes we support. Personal responsibility and commitment are key to making meaningful progress and achieving the improvements we envision.
(The writer is a mental health professional and has, over the past 11 years, contributed to several Sri Lankan media publications in both English and Sinhala languages, focusing on topics related to psychology and counselling)