Verse 40, highlights the impact of the environment on women and the resulting consequences for society. From the perspective of current science of human psychology, this verse reveals a fundamental principle of social psychology: the “influence of social context on individuals”.

The influence of social context on individuals refers to how people’s behavior, thoughts, and feelings are shaped by the social environment they are in. Social context includes various factors such as cultural norms, societal expectations, and interpersonal relationships. Modern human psychology recognizes that individuals are not solely responsible for their behaviors and decisions; rather, their actions are significantly influenced by the situations they find themselves in. Social context plays a crucial role in shaping our attitudes, values, and beliefs. Additionally, our sense of self and identity are also influenced by our social context. By examining the influence of social context on individuals, psychologists can gain a better understanding of why people behave in certain ways, and ultimately, develop effective interventions to improve individuals’ well-being. Firstly, the verse notes that the family environment has a significant influence on the women in the family. This is validated by research in psychology, which confirms that individuals are shaped by the environment they exist in. Parents are the primary model for a child’s worldview, shaping the child’s emotional and psychological development. Similarly, the family environment has a significant impact on the mental health and well-being of women, according to modern psychology research.

Moreover, this verse highlights the impact of environmental degradation on women and society. In psychology, environment and mental health are closely linked. Studies show that exposure to a negative environment affects the mental health and general well-being of individuals. Women, in particular, are disproportionately exposed to environmental degradation in the form of discrimination and violence, leading to psychological distress.

In addition, the verse implies the importance of “women’s status for society’s well-being”.

Modern human psychology acknowledges that women play a crucial role in society’s well-being. The status of women in a society determines their access to education, health care, political representation, and economic opportunities, and these factors directly affect the quality of life of individuals and communities. Research shows that societies with greater gender equality have lower levels of violence, better health outcomes, and higher levels of economic growth. Women also tend to prioritize the needs of children, families, and communities, which benefits society as a whole. Additionally, women can act as agents of change, challenging traditional gender roles and promoting greater equality and social justice. Hence, elevating the status of women is essential for creating a more prosperous, healthy, and peaceful society.

The verse suggests that degradation of womanhood leads to unwanted progeny, which in turn can lead to social unrest and disintegration of the family unit. Modern psychology research confirms that societies that promote women’s rights and status have significantly reduced rates of unwanted pregnancies and social unrest.

In the Purport to Verse 40, Srila Prabhupada sets out the principle that a good population in human society is essential for peace, prosperity, and spiritual progress. The varnasrama Vedic system of society, is structured to promote the development of such a population, relying on the chastity and faithfulness of women in particular. The text argues that women, like children, are prone to being misled and need protection from the elders of the family. Engaging women in religious practices is seen as a means of preventing adultery.

The Purport view of women, as lacking intelligence and trustworthiness is outdated in modern western civilization, and it is also not supported by modern psychological research. It is important to recognize that differences in intelligence exist across individuals, but these differences are not determined by gender. Furthermore, research has shown that trustworthiness is unrelated to gender.

However, the Purort’s emphasis on the importance of protecting vulnerable members of society is still relevant today. Children are indeed impressionable and require guidance and protection, and women can face particular dangers in some contexts. Rather than relying on religious practices alone, attention should be given to providing broader support and education that empowers individuals and helps them to make informed decisions.

The Purport’s central argument that the development of a good population is essential for social progress is also supported by modern psychological research. Healthy societies rely on cooperation and the development of positive social norms, and a good population is key to achieving these goals. A focus on spiritual and moral development, as suggested by the Purport, may offer one pathway to achieving this goal. However, it is important to recognize that the inclusion of all members of society, regardless of gender, is essential to creating a truly good population.

In summary, this verse from the Bhagavad-Gita as It Is, highlights the impact of social context on women and society and underscores how essential it is to create environments that promote mental health and well-being for individuals and society