ILMIY VA PROFESSIONAL TA’LIM JARAYONIDA MULOQOT, FAN VA MADANIYATLAR
INTEGRATSIYASI
253
Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages
PHILOSOPHICAL, PSYCHOLOGICAL, AND SOCIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF THE
CONCEPTS OF MORALITY AND ETHICS IN UZBEK AND ENGLISH SOCIETIES
Ochilboyeva Iroda Alisher qizi
SamDChTI mustaqil izlanuvchisi
Abstract:
The concepts of morality and ethics are key categories that define individual
interactions and value orientations in society. Different societies interpret these categories
through the prism of their cultural, religious, and historical specifics. Uzbek society, with its rich
heritage rooted in Islamic traditions, family values, and collectivism, demonstrates distinctive
traits compared to English society, which emphasizes individualism, rationalism, and liberal
values. The goal of this article is to conduct a philosophical, psychological, and sociological
analysis of the concepts of morality and ethics in these two societies, to identify their differences
and similarities, and to analyze the impact of historical and cultural factors on the formation of
these concepts.
Key words:
concept of morality, Aristotle’s philosophy, Uzbek culture, English society,
“eudaimonia”, historical factors, cultural factors.
Morality is defined as a set of norms and values regulating human behavior in society,
while ethics is a philosophical discipline that studies the nature of morality. In Uzbek culture,
moral norms are closely linked to Islamic teachings, such as respect for elders, helping others,
and honesty. In English culture, emphasis is placed on personal freedom and individual moral
responsibility.
Aristotle’s philosophy and his concept of virtue are reflected in English society, where
the primary goal is achieving “eudaimonia”—happiness through a virtuous life. In Uzbek culture,
a similar spirit is found in the focus on harmony with others and serving the community, aligning
with ideas from Confucianism and Islamic philosophy. Immanuel Kant’s concept of duty
manifests in English culture through an individual approach to moral decisions, whereas in
Uzbek tradition, duty is often collective and defined by social roles.
In Uzbek society, the formation of moral norms is significantly influenced by family,
religion, and oral folklore. Children are taught from a young age to respect elders, take
responsibility for their family and contribute to society. In English society, personal choice and
the right to one’s own opinion play a key role. Psychological studies, such as Lawrence
Kohlberg’s theory of moral development, show that in English-speaking countries, children often
make decisions based on individual moral principles, whereas in traditional societies like
Uzbekistan, conformity to social expectations holds greater importance.
Culture is a key factor in shaping moral behavior. It sets the framework within which
individuals make moral decisions, defines what actions are considered acceptable or
unacceptable, and forms perceptions of good and evil. Let us examine the main aspects of
cultural influence on moral behavior.
Culture influences moral behavior through established norms and values that are passed
down from generation to generation. These norms are often maintained through traditions,
upbringing and social pressure. For example, in Uzbek culture, moral behavior is defined by
collectivist values, such as respect for elders, helping others, and protecting family honor.
Examples include the celebration of the traditional Navruz festival, which emphasizes solidarity
and support. In English culture, individualism and personal responsibility are emphasized.
People often act based on their own moral principles, as reflected in traditions like queuing and
respecting personal space.
Religious teachings play an important role in shaping morality. In Uzbek society, Islam
has a decisive influence on moral behavior. Concepts like “halal” and “haram” regulate daily
actions, including honesty, justice and respect for others. In English society, the role of religion
ILMIY VA PROFESSIONAL TA’LIM JARAYONIDA MULOQOT, FAN VA MADANIYATLAR
INTEGRATSIYASI
254
Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages
has diminished due to secularization, but Christian roots still influence morality through ideals
like compassion and equality.
Culture influences moral behavior through institutions such as family, school, and the
state. In Uzbekistan, the family plays a key role in nurturing moral qualities. Children are taught
to respect their elders, care for younger family members, and adhere to traditional values. In
England, the significance of family as an institution is lower than in Uzbekistan. However,
schools and the legal system actively shape moral orientations through civic education and the
inculcation of respect for the law.
In Uzbek culture, a guest is considered “a gift from God” and refusing to offer hospitality
is a serious transgression. In English culture, hospitality is expressed less formally and through
respect for the guest’s personal space. In Uzbek culture, truth is sometimes adapted to preserve
harmony in relationships. In English culture, straightforwardness and honesty are valued more
highly, even if they lead to conflict.
Culture sets unique frameworks for shaping moral behavior, reflecting the historical,
religious, and social development of a society. Despite differences, the common goal remains the
pursuit of harmony and mutual respect. In the context of globalization, it is important to preserve
cultural heritage while adapting to new challenges.
In Uzbek culture, moral values are closely linked to ideals of “adolat” (justice) and
“insof” (honesty). These concepts regulate everyday behavior and strengthen social bonds. In
English culture, the emphasis is on honesty and straightforwardness but within the framework of
personal freedom. For example, truth in Uzbek society is often adapted to the context to maintain
harmony, whereas in English culture, open expression of opinions is expected.
Islam has a profound influence on moral norms in Uzbek society, shaping them through
Sharia and Sunnah. Traditions like respect for elders, hospitality and collectivism are supported
by religious and social institutions. In English society, the role of religion has diminished with
the rise of secularism, but traditions like honesty, hard work, and adherence to the law are
preserved through a long history of Protestantism.
Globalization has a significant impact on both societies. Uzbek society faces challenges
in preserving traditional moral values amid the penetration of Western culture. English society,
on the other hand, encounters the diversity of cultural norms in a multicultural environment. An
example is the attitude toward family values: in Uzbekistan, traditions remain stronger, while in
England, individualism continues to grow.
Globalization leads to an exchange of cultural values, which can both enrich and alter
traditional moral norms. In Uzbekistan, despite adherence to traditional norms, young people
increasingly embrace elements of Western culture, such as the pursuit of personal freedom and
career success. In England, multiculturalism has led to the acceptance of a broader spectrum of
moral norms, fostering tolerance but also creating challenges in defining universal moral
standards.
Morality and ethics play a key role in shaping the cultural identity of a society. Uzbek
and English societies demonstrate unique approaches to these categories, reflecting their
historical development, cultural traditions, and religious foundations. The interaction between
traditional and modern values remains a relevant topic for study in the context of globalization.
References
1. Aristotle. Nicomachean Ethics. Moscow: Azbuka, 2022.
2. Immanuel Kant. Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals. AST, 2023.
3. Kohlberg, L. Theory of Moral Development. Moscow: Uchitel, 1986.
4. Khodjaev, Sh. Morality and Traditions in Uzbek Culture. Moscow: Kultura, 1997.
5. Giddens, A. Sociology. Polity Press, 2013.
6. MacIntyre, A. After Virtue. University of Notre Dame Press, 2007.
7. Hofstede, G. Culture's Consequences: Comparing Values, Behaviors, Institutions, and
Organizations Across Nations. SAGE Publications, 2001.
8. Smith, A. The Theory of Moral Sentiments. Penguin Classics, 2010.
