We tend to live our lives in accordance with our values. When we face a decision and choose A instead of B, it's often because A feels right to us. We might use words such as, "it's the right thing to do," or "that's the right way."
We tend to think of our values as absolute and universal, what feels right to us must be right for everyone, but is it? Intellectually, we know the answer is no. We easily use the phrase "different strokes for different folks" as we observe a behavior that amuses, but doesn't threaten us.
Still, there are times when we bristle at someone's behavior, becoming outraged and angry, especially when a value we hold is challenged or violated. Recall a heated argument between friends or family members. A value conflict was surely the cause. In fact, any spontaneous and strong reaction to a situation can more than likely be traced to a values conflict.
Not sure I am in complete agreement with this. You have to consider those with little to no values and their 'what's in it for me perspective'. Sociopathic behavior or behavior by those who feel life is owed them on the proverbial 'silver platter' are those whose knee jerk and spontaneous reaction is with little thought to the implication on others. While not the majority (and for the record, I do believe the majority does react based on their values system), it must be considered in the larger scheme of things.
ReplyDeleteHmmm, I contend your rebuttal and reply with this: Whether they are plentiful or minimal, good ones or bad ones, we ALL have values. My aforementioned point wasn't to suggest or digest the types or amount of said values but rather to outline that ALL actions are governed by some type of value system
ReplyDeleteStill don't agree with you. There are those without remorse, the sociopaths who thrive on atypical and antisocial, acceptable behaviors. Can a value system be no values at all?
ReplyDeleteTotally agree with your view point...the key word is 'values'. We have to have some guage to go by, and we normally stick to our belief, what we were taught, our values, what feels good, comfortable, what feels right is what we normally go with, the right thing to do; if not we find ourselves in the place of questioning, see sawing with our decision, did we do the right thing. If we go against our grain, we suffer the consequence.
ReplyDelete“Whenever you're in conflict with someone, there is one factor that can make the difference between damaging your relationship and deepening it. That factor is attitude.”