It is difficult to make a definitive statement about whether people in today's society are more aware of right vs wrong or whether they are susceptible to being swayed by authority figures. Different individuals and groups may have varying levels of awareness and susceptibility.
On one hand, modern society places a greater emphasis on individual autonomy and ethical decision-making, which may lead to increased awareness of right vs wrong. Educational programs, social media, and public discourse often promote values such as honesty, empathy, and fairness, which can contribute to people's ethical awareness. Moreover, people today have greater access to diverse sources of information, which can enable them to make more informed ethical decisions.
On the other hand, research has shown that people are often influenced by authority figures, social norms, and other external factors in their ethical judgments. In some cases, people may defer to authority figures rather than critically evaluate ethical issues themselves. Social psychologists have demonstrated the power of conformity and obedience in influencing people's behavior, even in situations where it violates their own moral compass.
Therefore, while individuals may have a greater awareness of right vs wrong in some contexts, they may still be susceptible to influence from authority figures or social norms. It is important to continue promoting critical thinking and ethical decision-making in society, while also being aware of the potential for external influences to impact individual judgement.