First dicussion post
In the articles “The Initial Question” and “Sorting It Out: How We Choose Our Values”, the author talks about the characteristics (unpredictability, complexity and quarrelsomeness), definitions and development of human values. There are many interesting questions and points throughout the article. For example, do we make our decisions by following instincts or personal values? In addition, the author introduces six modes to develop values – four of them are mental, while the other two are synthetic. At the same time, when people use these modes to arrive at their own values, they have already chosen a value – a personal evaluation and belief. It means that they believe a certain way of developing personal values is better than the other ones All of these questions and ideas are interesting and worthy thinking for a long time. Personally, I agree with one point from the author the most, which is “personal values matter a great deal. Without them, we cannot live at all, for they are just as essential as air, food and water, and protection from the elements” (Lewis 18).
As the author states, the term “values” should be synonymous with personal evaluations and related beliefs especially those about the “good”, and “just”, and the “beautiful” that propel people to action, to a particular kind of behavior and life (Lewis 7). In other words, personal values determine the kind of life a personal lives. For example, if a person values money more than lives, he or she most likely become a robber and a murder in order to get enough money to live. On the other hand, if a person values the sense of achievement and hard work, he or she will find a competitive job, work hard and earn satisfactory salary. These are for individuals. Speaking on the national scale, if the decision-maker values education, the schools will receive more funds and children will have better studying environment. However, if the he or she values military and conquest, the military force of the country will likely be strong and war may happen. Therefore, perosnal values are essential to choose, and the necessity of studying personal value choices is important to be recognized.
Interesting overview of the reading. I’m curious what it is about this quote that you agree with. Why did you choose that quote? What specifically do you agree with? How does it relate to your own values?
“personal values matter a great deal. Without them, we cannot live at all, for they are just as essential as air, food and water, and protection from the elements” (Lewis 18).
Hey, Professor Shuette,
thanks for your comment. I chose this quote, because it has struck a responsive chord in my heart. I can pick out two things in this quote – the importance of having personal values and their influence on our lives. Personal values are the same important as air, food and water to people. Without them, we would lose the meaning of living. For example, I think that what I learn should make me feel interesting and useful. At the same time, I am always motivated to learn what I choose. In addition, I value the relationships between me and people who I care about. Therefore, I will spend all my time with my family when I am back to China. I will try my best to help my friends. And I also take very good care of my pet. To summarize, my personal values are the guidance of my life, which determines my choices and my behaviors. That’s why I agree that personal values matter a great deal.
Thanks, for helping me understand.
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