Changing Values in India Today

M N Srinivas Changes in values and norms are frequently discussed at the individual level and without reference to the wider society of which individuals are members and to the forces operating in the wider society In this essay the author emphasises some of the changes in the wider society as they are essential to understanding changes in values and attitudes in India today BEFORE I proceed further, I would like to provide a brier and tentative idea of what I mean by 'Values'. I have in mind those ideals of conduct the practice of which is admired by a people. Implicit in such admiration is a recognition that the ideals are difficult to practise, and that those who succeed in doing so are regarded as exceptional individuals, providing models for others to emulate.