HUMAN VALUES Flashcards
What is the unique characteristic of human beings related to values?
No two individuals have identical values, even close siblings may exhibit vastly different value systems.
How widespread is the diversity of values?
This diversity is not limited to families but extends to all organizations and countries.
How does Professor R.K. Mukerjee define values?
Mukerjee defines values as “socially approved desires and goals” that are internalized through various processes like conditioning, learning, social interaction, and personal aspirations.
What makes a desire or goal a “value” according to Mukerjee’s definition?
It needs to be “socially approved,” meaning it aligns with societal norms and expectations.
What processes contribute to internalizing values according to Mukerjee?
Conditioning, learning, socialisation, and individual aspirations all play a role in shaping and internalizing personal values.
Can you provide an example of how cultural background can influence values?
In some cultures, collectivism and family loyalty might be highly valued, while in others, individualism and personal achievement might be prioritized.
How can personal experiences and aspirations shape values?
An individual who overcomes a challenging experience might value perseverance and resilience, while another who witnesses environmental destruction might prioritize sustainability and ecological well-being.
What potential benefits can understanding different values have?
Recognizing and appreciating diverse values can promote empathy, tolerance, and effective communication across individuals and cultures.
How can understanding our own values be helpful?
Self-awareness of our values can guide our decision-making, career choices, and relationships, helping us live a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Can values change over time?
Values are dynamic and can evolve through life experiences, reflection, and exposure to new perspectives.
What are “Universal Values”?
Values that transcend cultural, religious, and geographical boundaries. Examples include honesty, equality, truthfulness, faithfulness, trust, and love.
What are “Local Values” and how do they differ from Universal Values?
Values specific to a particular community or region, often driven by tradition or adaptation to local circumstances. They may differ from Universal Values (e.g., eating meat in India vs. other nations). Local Values aim to minimize conflict arising from violating Universal Values. Examples include dietary practices, marriage customs, family structures, and respect for elders.
What are “Situational and Sustainable Values” and how do they differ?
Situational Values are temporary, driven by immediate needs (e.g., a starving person valuing food above all else). They can vary across societies and within the same society over time. Sustainable Values prioritize long-term benefits and consequences of actions.
How do “Personal Values” relate to cultural values?
Personal Values can align with or deviate from prevailing cultural norms. Cultural values, shared within a society, provide a framework for expectations and understanding of “good,” “beautiful,” and “constructive” behaviors.
How can cultural values be identified?
By examining the level of respect and honor bestowed upon different groups and ideas within a society. For example, valuing government jobs over corporate jobs in India versus the opposite in countries like America. Cultural values are dynamic and evolve over time.
