What Are the Foundations of Personal Values

Personal values are the bedrock of ethical literacy, guiding what we consider good or bad and informing our actions and decisions. Understanding our personal values is crucial for developing ethical literacy, which is particularly important for professionals in fields like public relations. This guide explores the foundations of personal values, including the types of values and how to identify them.

The Importance of Personal Values in Ethics

Personal values serve as the foundation for ethical decision-making by providing a framework for evaluating and prioritizing life’s demands. These values are deeply rooted in our beliefs and worldviews but are often so ingrained that we do not always recognize the values guiding our actions. This can lead to a lack of self-awareness, which is detrimental to ethical literacy.

Types of Personal Values

Theorist Talcott Parsons divides personal values into two major categories: terminal and instrumental values. Terminal values are long-term goals that individuals aspire to achieve, such as freedom, inner harmony, and salvation. These values represent cherished end-states that define what people find meaningful and desirable in their lives.

In contrast, instrumental values are the behaviors and practices that help individuals achieve their terminal values. Examples of instrumental values include independence, ambition, and obedience. These values guide actions and behaviors that can lead to the fulfillment of terminal values.

Identifying Personal Values

Avoiding the misperception that the absence of verbalized values means their absence, it is crucial to identify the inherent values that guide our actions. Various online tools can assist in this process. One such resource is the Barrett Values Centre, which offers a comprehensive personal values assessment.

The assessment leads individuals through self-development exercises, categorizing values into three groups:

Self-interest: Focusing on personal needs for security, love/belonging, and self-esteem. Transformation: Establishing a sense of personal independence and authenticity. Common good: Seeking a deeper understanding that recognizes and benefits others.

According to the Barrett Values Centre, achieving a balanced approach to values is essential. Those with values rooted solely in personal interest may be overly focused on their own needs, while those who focus exclusively on the greater good may lack the skills to meet their basic needs. A balanced approach allows for a holistic view of personal and societal values.

Foundational Aspects of Personal Values

Understanding and recognizing personal values is foundational to ethical decision-making, as these values shape our perceptions and behavior. By becoming more aware of our values, we can better navigate ethical dilemmas and make informed choices that reflect our beliefs and principles.

For professionals, such as public relations practitioners, being conscious of their values is vital for ethical literacy. This awareness helps ensure that their actions and decisions align with their personal and professional values, fostering trust and integrity in their work.

Conclusion

Personal values are not just abstract concepts but the guiding principles that shape our lives. By understanding the types of values, finding the values that guide our actions, and achieving a balanced approach, individuals can cultivate ethical literacy and make meaningful contributions to society.

References: Parsons, T. (1964). Social System. Harper Row. Barrett Values Centre. (n.d.). Personal Identification. Retrieved from