A Matter of Conduct

(DTO) A passenger bus driver was recently prosecuted and taken into custody for disturbing public order after driving at a high speed, chasing a truck over a long stretch of road, failing to stay in the correct lane, not keeping a safe following distance, not wearing a seatbelt, swerving, and making continuous lane changes, which disrupted public order and endangered traffic safety. The incident stemmed from an earlier collision between the truck and the bus while both were on the road.

In reality, this is far from an isolated case. Reckless behavior that shows disregard for human life occurs frequently, most visibly in the realm of traffic safety.

Beyond traffic, many violations of public order continue to happen in various places and to varying degrees.

These are forms of improper conduct, even unlawful behavior, many of which have been strictly punished.

Moreover, inappropriate conduct is not limited to real-life situations. It is rampant across online platforms and social media.

These online spaces can be even more sophisticated than real life. There, people can spread rumors, insult, or attack any organization or individual they wish.

Though considered virtual, these online forums have very real consequences, directly affecting real people, and those who violate the law are held accountable in real life.

Looking at reality, it becomes clear that deviant behaviors, whether improper conduct or more serious legal violations, should also be viewed through a cultural lens.

They reflect aspects of Vietnamese culture that are less admirable. While not widespread, such behaviors need to be corrected so that they align with the values of a nation with thousands of years of cultural and historical heritage like Vietnam.

In fact, the matter of conduct is only one perspective within the broader effort to build Vietnamese culture. Throughout the country’s long history, culture has always “illuminated the path for the nation.”

Cultural foundations are essential to the enduring vitality of every nation, its people, and the character of each individual.

This is not only about interpersonal conduct but also encompasses many other factors. Recognizing culture’s vital role, the Politburo has just issued Resolution 80-NQ on developing Vietnamese culture and designated November 24 each year as “Vietnam Culture Day.”

Resolution 80 affirms that Vietnamese culture is the crystallization of the nation’s finest values, formed over thousands of years of building and defending the country. It is an important internal resource that shapes the intellect, soul, fortitude, and resilience of the Vietnamese people.

History shows that every period of strong national development has gone hand in hand with vibrant cultural growth.

The Resolution sets the goal that by 2030, Vietnam will advance the development of a progressive culture rich in national identity, unified in diversity, imbued with national, democratic, humanistic, scientific, and modern characteristics.

It calls for building a healthy cultural environment from families and schools to society at large, including the digital space. For that reason, it is hoped that the matter of conduct, especially “deviant” behaviors, will also be shaped within a renewed cultural foundation for the nation.

 By THE ANH
Translated by ANH DUC