The Role of Social Systems in Developing National Values among University Youth A Theoretical and Analytical Study

Abstract

The issue under investigation centers on this inquiry: In what ways can societal structures help in fostering national values in college-age individuals? In order to respond to this inquiry, the research intends to clarify the idea and characteristics of social systems, in addition to clarifying their role in developing the concept of national values among university students.The importance of the research lies in strengthening national identity and fostering a sense of belonging among university youth, as they represent a pivotal segment in building and advancing society. The study population consists of Iraqi university students who are conscious and aware of societal issues.

The researchers adopted the descriptive-analytical method by analyzing theoretical frameworks and concepts related to social systems and national values, as well as reviewing some previous theoretical and field studies.

1. Social systems play an important role in promoting national values, foremost among them being the family, due to its direct role in instilling values, principles, and customs through upbringing and educational programs.
2. National values are standards that guide the formation of a good citizen who believes in democracy, respect for others, tolerance, adherence to rules and laws, and loyalty and belonging to the homeland.
3. The study revealed that the family system plays a major role in reinforcing national values among individuals through its upbringing and educational functions.
4. The study also indicated that the widespread use of modern media and social networking sites poses a threat to the advancement of national values in society.

Based on these findings, the researchers recommend the following:

1. Establish effective coordination between the family and other social systems to build a cohesive national framework that strengthens national values.
2. The Ministry of Education should include national topics in school and university curricula that emphasize concepts of loyalty, belonging, good citizenship, teamwork, tolerance, and dialogue.
3. The Ministry of Information should develop national media strategies aimed at directing media content toward reinforcing national identity and countering materials that weaken loyalty and belonging to the homeland.
4. Civil society organizations should involve university youth in dialogue programs and training courses related to civic and political engagement to strengthen concepts of democracy and conscious citizenship.

Based on these recommendations, the researchers suggest:

1. Supporting social and psychological studies that address national values and the role of social systems in developing them, and applying their results in educational and pedagogical policies.
2. Developing awareness programs for youth to confront the effects of globalization and open media, and to protect them from negative ideas or intellectual deviations.