Question

Define values. Distinguish between instrumental values and terminal values. Are these values generally stable, or do they change over time? Explain. What is the relationship between values and ethics? How does this compare or relate to your experience?

Answer 1

Solution –

Values are beliefs that help in making judgement on important matters and are different from person to person. It allows for prioritization of options and choices. Instrumental values are the core values and are the most stable and permanent in nature. These values are most difficult to change and bring out the most obvious behavior of character in situations. Terminal values are one that the person works towards and signify the person’s objectives in life. These change as the perspective of the person changes and when the person grows with time and age.

Values and ethics are different in a way that values are the beliefs that help to decide while ethics are moral principles that guide the conduct of a person. So values help to make our choices while ethics guide on what is morally right or wrong. Now in my live experience when I am making a career decision then I am governed by my values but in a career when I have a choice between let say to take a bribe or not then I make my choice basis my values but my ethics tell me that it is wrong. Ethics are universal while values are personal.