Mal Nombre: the Experience of Nature Activities and the Formation of Society Values

Abstract

The present research aims at stimulating the ethical values formation process in Cuban society. Although as a society we are committed to support and encourage our young citizens, there has been a scarcity of recreational activities open to them to foster the socialist values we wish to promote. Thirty-two years ago, a group of young people came together establishing such an activity, choosing to trek together in Cuba’s countryside. They nicknamed themselves "Mal Nombre". This paper aims at analyzing how the members’ involvement in the planning, preparation and development of “Mal Nombre” trekking excursions influenced their personal values development. Drawing on the methodologies described in the paper, including a survey, it was determined that membership of the group and participation in its activities had a significant impact on individuals’ values. In particular, the positive values of solidarity, comradeship, humanity, friendship, respect, personal responsibility and patriotism were nourished. The research shows how engagement in such healthy and purposeful group activities can stimulate the formation of ethical values in the Cuban population.