Factors which determine values

Social Norms and Society

• • Societal values are often passed down through generations, shaped by historical contexts and collective experiences. For example, Western societies may prioritize individualism and freedom, while Indian society emphasizes community, harmony, and family ties.
  • Different cultures teach different values based on their social norms. In India, societal values derived from ancient traditions, philosophical thought, and religious teachings promote ideals such as peace, tolerance, and collective responsibility.
  • Societal values can vary between conservative and progressive ideologies. Conservative values may prioritize tradition and stability, while progressive values embrace change and innovation.

Religion

• • Religions provide foundational values that guide behavior and ethical decision-making. They often promote virtues such as compassion, forgiveness, and justice.

Culture

• • Values are a culture’s standard for discerning what is good and just in society.. Values are deeply embedded and critical for transmitting and teaching a culture’s beliefs.
  • The United States also has an individualistic culture, meaning people place a high value on individuality and independence. In contrast, many other cultures are collectivist, meaning the welfare of the group and group relationships is a primary value.
  • Cultures differ in their values about what kinds of physical closeness are appropriate in public. It’s rare to see two male friends or coworkers holding hands in the United States where that behavior often symbolizes romantic feelings. But in many nations, masculine physical intimacy is considered natural in public.

Knowledge and Rationality

• • Scientific Temper: In modern societies, advancements in science and technology challenge traditional values and beliefs. The scientific method encourages critical thinking, leading individuals to question established norms and adopt new values based on rationality and evidence.
  • Technological Development: As technology evolves, it shapes societal values, promoting innovation and efficiency.
  • The rise of social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram has changed how people interact and communicate. Values such as privacy, transparency, and authenticity are being redefined.
  • Platforms like Tinder and Bumble have transformed how people meet and establish relationships. The normalization of online dating has shifted values around love, intimacy, and relationships, moving away from traditional courtship to a more causal and exploratory approach.

Morality and Belief

• • Integral Humanism, as proposed by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya reflects how beliefs shape values. He states, “This idea is not about individual versus society but the idea of integration in the society,” indicating a belief in interconnectedness. This belief leads to values such as cooperation and social responsibility. Upadhyaya argues that “the individual does not only mean physical being, but he also has mind, intellect, and soul.” This belief emphasizes the value of nurturing all aspects of human life. By focusing on the four purusharthas—“Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha”—he shows how beliefs about life’s purpose inform values that promote balanced development and societal well-being.
  • Individual Moral Values: Personal beliefs about right and wrong, influenced by the process of socialization, role modeling, experiences & education shape one’s moral framework and therefore his/her values.

Attitude

• • Attitudes greatly influence our values, as they shape how we think and act.
  • Someone who feels positive about social media as a way to connect might value communication and openness. On the other hand, if they see social media as harmful, they may develop a value for privacy and limit their online sharing.
  • A person with a positive attitude towards environmental issues may actively value sustainability. This can lead them to adopt habits like recycling and using public transport.
  • If someone has a positive attitude toward learning about other cultures, they might value diversity and inclusion.