VALUE A value is an ideal toward which people strive Values will be used to determine comparative worth of ideas in relation to social preference Values are judgments based on our experiences - they are neither right nor wrong

Intrinsic/Instrumental Values Something has Intrinsic Value if it is valuable for its own sake and not merely as a means to other values. It is a terminal or ending point value. –Happiness, Life, Peace Something is an Instrumental Value if it helps us achieve a terminal value. –Equality, Justice, Cooperation

VALUE HIERARCHY An ordering or ranking of values In placing one value over another in decision making, we do not eliminate a value; we merely give it a less important standing

Values Aren’t Debatable The issue of whether or not something is a value is NOT debatable How a value’s worth is weighed in relationship to other values (value hierarchy) is debatable

Common Values EqualityJusticePrivacy HappinessLifeFreedom ProgressSafetyKnowledge National SecurityFreedom of Expression Individual RightsQuality of Life

Comparing Values #1 The value applying to all humankind is the best value –A value that affects all societies (equality) is greater than a value that affects only selected societies (democracy).

Comparing Values #2 The value that fits the resolution in context will ultimately be the better value. –“National security” and “quality of life” are both important values. When questioning genetic engineering’s worth, however, quality of life fits the resolution better.

Comparing Values #3 The value that enhances other values is greatly advantageous. –Upholding individual rights is even greater when we consider that it enhances liberty, equality, and quality of life.

Comparing Value #4 The value that limits or destroys other values is not as advantageous. –Rights may be important, but they may be considered a lesser value if they diminishes safety.

Comparing Values #5 Physical needs must be fulfilled before we are motivated to pursue other needs on the hierarchy. –A person who is starving won’t have much motivation to pursue knowledge.

Comparing Values #5 Physical Needs Safety & Security Belonging Self-Esteem Self-Actualization