Values vs Principles
Living in society, we follow unwritten rules, customs, traditions, and moral and religious principles. Values and principles, although closely related, have differences that are discussed below.
Values
Values are sets of beliefs about what is good and bad, right and wrong, and about many other aspects of living and interacting with others in society. Although some values, like love and compassion, are universal, values vary from culture to culture and also depend on individual beliefs. Values are beliefs and opinions that people hold regarding issues and concepts such as liberty, freedom, love, sex, education, relations, and friendship. Often, values have a religious sanction, and people hold them without knowing much about them, considering some things as sacred and others profane just because they are written in their sacred texts.
Values serve as a guiding force in life and provide a sense of direction to an individual in society. In times of confusion or dilemma, clear-cut values can help an individual make decisions and move forward in life.
Principles
Principles can be described as rules or laws that are universal in nature. These principles are about human behavior and set or govern the interaction between people in a society. Principles are unwritten laws that are expected to be followed, and those who flout these principles are looked down upon in society. People also create their own guiding principles in life to help them when they are in doubt.
Principles are always about universal truths or standards. Clear-cut principles about concepts such as fairness, justice, equality, truthfulness, and honesty enable individuals to take a stand on social issues or events.
Key Takeaways
– Values are sets of beliefs about subjective traits and ideal while principles are universal laws and truths.
– Values serve as a guiding force in life and provide a sense of direction, while principles set or govern the interaction between people in a society.
– Having clear-cut values and principles allows individuals to make decisions and take a stand on important issues and concepts.
