Universal Values in Ethics Quiz & Flashcards

Study Notes

Universal values refer to moral characteristics shared across cultures, including piety, responsibility, secularism, and respect.
Defining universal values poses challenges as they are linked to morality and ethics, which may differ individually.
Values guide actions and decisions; each person's values may vary due to differing perspectives and backgrounds.

S.H. Schwartz led research to identify universal values, defining them as views on what is important in life.
Ten types of universal values identified by Schwartz include:

Power: Pursuit of social status and control over people and resources.
Achievement: Seeking personal success through competence in alignment with social standards.
Hedonism: The pursuit of pleasure and self-gratification.
Stimulation: Desire for excitement, novelty, and challenges in life.
Self-Direction: Emphasis on independent thought and action.
Universalism: Promotion of understanding, tolerance, and the welfare of all people and nature.
Benevolence: Focus on enhancing the welfare of close personal contacts.
Tradition: Commitment and respect for customs and cultural practices.
Conformity: Restraining behavior to avoid harming others and respecting social norms.
Security: Valuing safety, harmony, and stability in society and personal relationships.

Basic universal values aim to fulfill fundamental human needs for life, love, and happiness, including:
Happiness: Viewed as the ultimate value across religions, often linked to promises of eternal bliss.
Peace: Essential for freedom and happiness, as conflict disrupts both.
Love: Represents a profound connection with others and nature.
Freedom: Involves independence from societal pressures, crucial for inner peace.
Safety: Offers emotional well-being by protecting against fear and threats.
Intelligence: Vital for problem-solving in global challenges.
Human Respect: Rooted in empathy and shared humanity.
Equality: Emphasizes equal rights and opportunities for all individuals.
Justice: Ensures fair treatment under the law, maintaining core human values.
Nature: Recognizes dependency on nature and the importance of its preservation.
Health: Essential for overall well-being, encompassing physical, mental, and social aspects.

Universal values create a foundation for societal coexistence and collaboration.
They foster respect, understanding, and tolerance among diverse populations.
Promote well-being and stability essential for thriving communities.
Facilitate conflict resolution and ensure equitable treatment, contributing to social harmony.