The fabric of any society is held together by the standards of morality that we maintain and practice. Values are our personal set of beliefs about what is important, unimportant, right, wrong, good and bad. When we are confronted by choices, options, or moral dilemmas, the decisions we make will indicate what values we hold. Human values give worthiness and respect to life. The foundation of human values are based on ÷ Dignity of human life ÷ Respect and consideration for the "other" ÷ The importance of integrity and service ÷ An attitude of non-violence ÷ The individual and collective quest for peace and happiness. In other words, values are a kind of a map in our minds of how things are or should be. Values are only our perception of the principles of nature that govern our lives or the universe, and not these principles themselves. People think that there should be a specific set of principles protecting and governing all human beings.
Liberian ceremonial spoon
Emblem of Shango, the Yoruba god of thunder
Lumbung Ilmu (Granary of Knowledge)However, others believe that values can be accepted in one culture and rejected in another culture. This idea is based on the belief that moral principles differ across cultures.
Our moral values are our beliefs about what is important in life. Some values refer to how one should act (be honest, altruistic, self-disciplined) while other values refer to what one wants to accomplish or obtain in life (a lot of money, fame, a family, friendships, world peace). Because a person cannot "have it all" or "be all things," priorities must be set and choices made. Setting your priorities often leads to value conflicts. We may want to be successful in your career, but we may also want a more relaxing lifestyle and more time to spend with friends and family. Here, the value of success may...