Value
Value
Understanding the interplay of these factors is essential for designing effective strategies for value
inculcation in individuals and society at large.
1) Terminal and Instrumental: Terminal value are the ones that are ends-in- themselves, such as
happiness, salvation etc. Instrumental values are the ones that are used to attain terminal values.
For example, in Indian tradition, dharma, artha, kama are instrumental values and moksha is the
terminal value.
2) Intrinsic and Extrinsic values: Intrinsic values are ones that hold value on their own such as
peace, love etc. Extrinsic values are those that are valuable only when used to attain something
with intrinsic value. For example, wealth and wisdom are extrinsic values which are used to realize
intrinsic values like prosperity and knowledge.
The division of values is not mutually exclusive. For example- a religious book may be valued
because of its intrinsic value (religious message/doctrine) or it can be an instrumental value as it
helps in achieving higher goals like moksha or nirvana.
3) Moral, amoral and immoral: Values can be categorized based on what is right and wrong. Moral
values are the ones that promote right action such as honesty, empathy etc. Immoral values are
ones that promote wrong action such as greed, lust etc. Amoral values are ones which are neither
moral or immoral and have nothing to do with morality, such as beauty, fitness etc.
4) Political, Social and Economic values: Political values are the sum total of opinions/attitudes of
the individuals on specific and important political issues. They include democracy, liberalism,
equality, etc. Social values are a set of principles that are morally acceptable by the society.
They depend upon society dynamics, institutions, traditions and cultural beliefs. These values are
implicit guidelines that provide tips to individuals to conduct themselves properly within a social
system. Economic values are those that focus, on growth and expansion, productivity, better
return over investment and cost savings. Example: efficiency, value for money, capitalism and
sometimes even consumerism, materialism and so on.
Q. Social values are more important than economic values. Discuss the above statement with examples in
the context of inclusive growth of a nation. (UPSC Mains 2015)
5) Traditional and Modern values: Values practiced and passed over generations are termed as
traditional values. They aim to preserve and protect traditions, customs and stress on stability.
For example- family values, discipline, celebrating festivals, honesty, respecting elders,
compassion, daan (charity), purchasing only what is needed, etc. Modern values are those that
reflect the global principles of today, like freedom of speech, liberalism, secularism, etc. They
also recognize other rights like the right of every individual to be seen and heard, where citizens
can be authentic and stand up for themselves, where there is innovation, creativity and new
thinking, etc. Our Constitution also talks about cultivating modern values like scientific temper
and a spirit of enquiry as a fundamental duty of the citizens.
Q. "The current internet expansion has instilled a different set of cultural values which are often in
conflict with traditional values. Discuss. (UPSC Mains 2020)
6) Universal and Subjective values: Universal values are those moral rules or ideas that exist
irrespective of time and space. The values of peace, freedom, social progress, equal rights and
human dignity, enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and in the Universal Declaration of
Human Rights are no less valid today than when they were drafted in the Charter half a century
ago. For instance, patriotism is a universal value, even though it can have different manifestations
for different people. For a soldier, patriotism means protecting the nation's borders, while for
an individual it could mean obeying all laws and paying taxes. For some it could be voting in
elections while for others it could mean doing community service. Subjective values are those
that are transient or have different meanings in different contexts. For example, collectivism is
a value that is treasured in India, as there is cohesiveness among individuals and rights of the
group or community are prioritized over that of individuals. Whereas, in the United States,
people prefer individualism rather than collectivism. Sometimes, it may not be possible to classify
values as universal or subjective, in watertight compartments as they may overlap with each
other.
Q1. Some people feel that values keep changing with time and situation, while others strongly believe
that there are certain universal and eternal human values. Give your perception in this regard with due
justification. (UPSC Mains 2013)
Q2. In the context of defense services, 'patriotism' demands readiness to even lay down one's life in
protecting the nation. According to you, what does patriotism imply in everyday civil life? Explain with
illustrations and justify your answer. (UPSC Mains 2014)
Values Ethics
▪ Ideals shared by groups/individuals, about ▪ Set of principles based on values.
the desirability of something.
▪ Values are inside us. They are intrinsic and ▪ Ethics originate from outside the self and
concern the private sphere. They have to concerns public life. It has to do with
do with character of a person. conduct of a person.
▪ It is difficult to codify values as they are ▪ It is sometimes possible to codify ethics.
often assumed, imbibed and may not apply Example: Ethical Code of Conduct for Civil
to all at all times. Servants.
▪ Values help in evaluating multiple choice of ▪ Ethics prescribes the acceptable choice of
actions and act as a motivator in action and compels us to take up that
influencing our choice. particular course of action.
▪ Values may not always have a positive ▪ Ethics constitute play of positive values in
connotation. the world.
▪ Example: A person having an 'extra-marital ▪ Example: A person accepting bribes
affair, is termed to have a "bad or termed unethical.
incoherent value system.
HOW CIVIL SERVANTS ROLE IN BUILDING VALUE
Civil servants play a crucial role in building values within society, contributing to the ethical foundation
and responsible governance. Here are ways in which civil servants contribute to values:
1) Public Service Ethos: Civil servants are expected to uphold a strong public service ethos,
emphasizing dedication, integrity, and accountability in their work for the betterment of society.
2) Policy Implementation: Civil servants are responsible for implementing government policies. Their
commitment to fair and impartial execution of policies contributes to values like justice, equality,
and transparency.
3) Ethical Decision-Making: Civil servants often face ethical dilemmas. Their ability to make ethical
decisions, considering the broader impact on society, is crucial in upholding values and public
trust.
4) Accountability and Transparency: Civil servants are accountable for their actions and decisions.
Emphasizing transparency in processes and communication helps build public trust and reinforces
values of honesty and openness.
5) Service to the Public: Civil servants directly serve the public, and their commitment to providing
efficient and equitable services promotes values related to public welfare and responsiveness.
6) Conflict Resolution Skills: Civil servants often deal with conflicts or disputes. Their ability to
resolve these conflicts diplomatically and fairly contributes to values such as justice,
cooperation, and understanding.
7) Non-Discrimination and Inclusivity: Civil servants are expected to treat all citizens with
fairness and without discrimination. Promoting inclusivity and diversity contributes to values of
equality and social justice.
8) Environmental and Social Responsibility: Civil servants involved in planning and development
contribute to sustainable practices and social responsibility, aligning with values related to
environmental stewardship and community well-being.
9) Professionalism and Competence: Exhibiting professionalism and competence in their roles, civil
servants set a positive example and contribute to the values of diligence, dedication, and
continuous improvement.
10) Whistleblower Protection: Establishing mechanisms to protect whistleblowers within government
institutions contributes to fostering a culture of accountability and integrity.
11) Public Communication and Information: Civil servants communicate policies and information to
the public. Ensuring accurate, timely, and transparent communication supports values like
truthfulness and accountability.
12) Policy Advocacy for Social Issues: Civil servants may advocate for policies that address social
issues, contributing to the advancement of values associated with compassion, empathy, and social
responsibility.
13) Preventing Corruption: Civil servants play a crucial role in preventing corruption by adhering to
ethical standards and promoting a culture of zero tolerance for corruption within their
institutions.
14) Community Engagement: Engaging with the community and understanding its needs helps civil
servants align policies with grassroots realities, promoting values of community participation and
responsiveness.
15) Continuous Learning and Adaptability: Embracing a culture of continuous learning and
adaptability enables civil servants to navigate complex challenges, fostering values such as
resilience, flexibility, and innovation.
By embodying these principles, civil servants contribute significantly to the establishment and
reinforcement of societal values, helping build a governance framework that reflects the
ideals of justice, integrity, and service to the public.
STRENGTH OF CIVIL SERVANT ROLE IN BUILDING VALUES
The role of civil servants in building values is characterized by several strengths that contribute to
ethical governance and the overall well-being of society:
1) Public Trust and Confidence: Civil servants, through their dedication to ethical conduct and
public service, contribute to building public trust and confidence in government institutions,
reinforcing the values of accountability and transparency.
2) Policy Implementation: Civil servants play a crucial role in translating government policies into
action. Their commitment to fair and impartial implementation promotes values like justice,
equality, and the rule of law.
3) Stability and Consistency: Civil servants provide stability and consistency in governance,
contributing to the predictability and reliability of government actions. This helps reinforce
values such as dependability and adherence to established norms.
4) Adherence to Professional Standards: Civil servants are often guided by professional standards
and codes of conduct. Their commitment to these standards promotes values such as
professionalism, integrity, and ethical behavior.
5) Service to the Public: Civil servants are dedicated to serving the public interest. Their focus on
providing effective and equitable services aligns with values related to public welfare,
responsiveness, and a commitment to the common good.
6) Decision-Making in the Public Interest: Civil servants are expected to make decisions that
prioritize the public interest over personal or sectional interests, embodying values of
selflessness, altruism, and a dedication to the greater good.
7) Expertise and Competence: Civil servants often possess specialized knowledge and expertise in
their areas of responsibility. Their competence contributes to effective governance and
reinforces values associated with professionalism and continuous improvement.
8) Crisis Management and Resilience: Civil servants play a key role in managing crises and
emergencies. Their ability to respond effectively fosters values such as resilience, adaptability,
and a commitment to public safety.
9) Inclusivity and Diversity: Civil servants contribute to creating inclusive and diverse work
environments. Their commitment to treating all individuals fairly and without discrimination
reinforces values of equality and social justice.
10) Promoting Innovation and Efficiency: Civil servants who champion innovation and efficiency
contribute to values associated with adaptability, forward-thinking, and a commitment to
providing better services to the public.
11) Community Engagement and Empathy: Civil servants engaged with the community demonstrate
empathy and an understanding of citizens' needs. This engagement aligns with values related to
community participation, responsiveness, and a people-centered approach.
12) Preventing Corruption: Civil servants play a pivotal role in preventing corruption within
government institutions. Their commitment to upholding ethical standards contributes to values
such as integrity, honesty, and a commitment to the rule of law.
13) Whistleblower Protection: Establishing mechanisms to protect whistleblowers within government
institutions reflects a commitment to accountability and ethical conduct, contributing to values
such as transparency and a culture of responsibility.
14) Environmental and Social Responsibility: Civil servants involved in planning and development
contribute to values associated with environmental stewardship and social responsibility,
fostering sustainable practices and community well-being.
15) Capacity Building and Continuous Learning: Civil servants who prioritize capacity building and
continuous learning contribute to values such as adaptability, resilience, and a commitment to
personal and professional development.
These strengths collectively demonstrate the significant impact that civil servants can have on
fostering a culture of values within government institutions, promoting ethical governance, and
serving the best interests of the public.
While the role of civil servants in building values is essential, there are critiques and challenges
associated with this responsibility:
1) Bureaucratic Inertia: Bureaucratic structures may sometimes resist change, hindering civil
servants from effectively adapting to evolving societal values and impeding their ability to lead in
value-based initiatives.
2) Political Interference: Civil servants may face challenges in upholding values when there is
political interference or pressure to align with political agendas that may not necessarily
prioritize ethical considerations.
3) Ethical Dilemmas: Civil servants often encounter complex ethical dilemmas in their decision-
making. Balancing competing values and interests may lead to situations where adhering to one
value might compromise another.
4) Limited Autonomy: In hierarchical bureaucratic systems, civil servants may have limited
autonomy to implement values-based initiatives independently. This can hinder their ability to
drive meaningful change.
5) Lack of Training and Resources: Some civil servants may lack adequate training and resources to
effectively address values- related issues. Insufficient support in terms of education and
training can impact their competence in handling ethical challenges.
6) Slow Response to Change: Bureaucratic processes can be slow to adapt to changing societal
values. This may result in a disconnect between the values upheld by civil servants and the
expectations of the evolving society.
7) Inequitable Distribution of Services: Civil servants may unintentionally contribute to the
perpetuation of social inequalities by unevenly distributing public services. This can be a challenge
to values associated with fairness and social justice.
8) Resistance to Innovation: The bureaucratic nature of some government agencies may lead to
resistance to innovative approaches, hindering civil servants from adopting new strategies that
align with contemporary values.
9) Perceived Lack of Accountability: In some instances, civil servants may be perceived as lacking
accountability, especially if there are insufficient mechanisms for oversight and enforcement of
ethical conduct.
10) Complex Regulatory Environment: The complex and stringent regulatory environment in which
civil servants operate can sometimes be overwhelming, making it challenging to navigate and
adhere to ethical standards.
11) Limited Public Engagement: Civil servants may face challenges in effectively engaging with the
public to understand their values and concerns. Limited public input may result in policies that do
not fully align with societal expectations.
12) Overemphasis on Compliance: Bureaucratic cultures may place a higher emphasis on compliance
with rules and regulations rather than fostering a culture that encourages critical thinking and
values-driven decision-making.
13) Fragmented Decision-Making: Decisions in government are often made collectively, and this can
lead to a diffusion of responsibility, making it challenging to pinpoint accountability for values-
related outcomes.
14) Underrepresentation of Diversity: The civil service may not always reflect the diversity of the
broader society. Lack of diversity among civil servants can influence the perspectives considered
in decision-making and values implementation.
15) Complexity of Values Integration: Integrating values into policy and practice requires a nuanced
understanding of ethical considerations. Civil servants may struggle to navigate the complexity of
integrating values into their daily work.
Addressing these critiques requires a commitment to ongoing training, cultural change within
bureaucratic structures, and a collective effort to align government practices with evolving societal
values. Civil service reform initiatives and a focus on ethical leadership can contribute to overcoming
these challenges.
IMPORTANCE OF VALUES
Values are of paramount importance in various aspects of individual, societal, and cultural life. Here are
several reasons highlighting their significance:
1) Guiding Principles: Values serve as guiding principles that shape decision-making and behavior,
helping individuals navigate choices aligned with their beliefs and convictions.
2) Moral Compass: Values provide a moral compass, defining what is considered right or wrong. They
contribute to ethical conduct, fostering integrity, honesty, and accountability in personal and
professional realms.
3) Personal Development: Values play a crucial role in personal development, influencing character,
attitudes, and the formation of one's identity. They contribute to self-awareness and guide
individuals in defining their purpose and goals.
4) Interpersonal Relationships: Values influence how individuals relate to others. Shared values
create a foundation for meaningful connections, cooperation, and mutual understanding in
relationships, whether familial, social, or professional.
5) Social Cohesion: Shared values contribute to social cohesion within communities and societies.
They provide a sense of belonging and shared identity, fostering unity and cooperation among
diverse groups of people.
6) Cultural Identity: Values are integral to cultural identity, shaping the traditions, customs, and
ethical norms of different societies. They contribute to the richness and diversity of cultural
heritage.
7) Ethical Leadership: Values are crucial for ethical leadership. Leaders who uphold values such as
fairness, transparency, and empathy are more likely to inspire trust and promote positive
organizational cultures.
8) Decision-Making Framework: Values provide a framework for decision-making. They help
individuals prioritize goals, assess potential outcomes, and make choices aligned with their core
principles.
9) Social Justice and Equality: Values underpin the pursuit of social justice and equality. They
guide efforts to address discrimination, injustice, and inequality, promoting fairness and respect
for human rights.
10) Community Well-Being: Values contribute to the well-being of communities by fostering
cooperation, solidarity, and a shared commitment to common goals. They are essential for building
resilient and supportive communities.
11) Mental Well-Being: Living in alignment with one's values is associated with enhanced mental well-
being. It provides individuals with a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and satisfaction in their lives.
12) Education and Moral Development: Values education plays a crucial role in the moral development
of individuals. It helps instill ethical principles, empathy, and a sense of responsibility in the
younger generation.
13) Adaptability and Resilience: Values contribute to adaptability and resilience in the face of
challenges. They provide a stable foundation that helps individuals cope with adversity and
navigate changing circumstances.
14) Global Harmony: Shared values contribute to global harmony by fostering understanding and
collaboration among diverse cultures and nations. Common values promote peaceful coexistence
and international cooperation.
15) Environmental Stewardship: Values guide attitudes toward the environment and sustainability.
Ethical values promote responsible stewardship of the planet, emphasizing the importance of
environmental conservation and responsible consumption.
In essence, values are the bedrock of ethical living, interpersonal relationships, and societal harmony,
influencing how individuals and communities interact with themselves, others, and the world
at large.
The erosion of values is a complex phenomenon influenced by various societal, cultural, and
individual factors. Several reasons contribute to the erosion of values:
1) Cultural Shifts: Rapid cultural changes, including shifts in societal norms, attitudes, and lifestyle,
can contribute to the erosion of traditional values as new perspectives and behaviors emerge.
2) Media Influence: Media, including television, movies, and social media, can shape perceptions and
influence values. Exposure to content that promotes materialism, instant gratification, or
unethical behavior may contribute to erosion.
3) Technology and Digitalization: The rapid advancement of technology and increased digitalization
can create new challenges for values. Online interactions, cyberbullying, and the prevalence of
misinformation may impact ethical standards.
4) Globalization: Increased globalization can lead to the integration of diverse cultural values. While
this can enrich societies, it may also contribute to the dilution or erosion of traditional values as
different cultural perspectives interact.
5) Economic Pressures: Economic challenges, such as financial instability or inequality, can influence
individuals to prioritize material success over ethical considerations, potentially leading to the
erosion of values.
6) Individualism and Consumerism: Societal emphasis on individualism and consumerism may
prioritize personal gain over collective well-being, contributing to a shift away from values that
emphasize community, altruism, or social responsibility.
7) Educational System Challenges: Educational systems facing limitations in addressing values
education, or emphasizing solely academic achievements, may contribute to a lack of emphasis on
moral and ethical development.
8) Breakdown of Family Structures: Changes in family dynamics, including higher rates of divorce,
single-parent households, or reduced emphasis on traditional family values, can impact the
transmission of values from one generation to the next.
9) Political Instability: Political unrest or instability can influence societal values. Instances of
corruption or unethical behavior within political systems may contribute to a sense of
disillusionment and erosion of trust in institutions.
10) Social Media Influence: The immediacy and widespread reach of social media can amplify trends
and behaviors. The influence of social media culture, including the pursuit of popularity or social
validation, may impact individual values.
11) Loss of Moral Authority: Instances of moral failures within institutions or leadership positions
can erode the moral authority of these entities, impacting the credibility of the values they
represent.
12) Erosion of Religious Influence: In some societies, a decline in religious adherence or influence
may contribute to the erosion of values traditionally associated with religious teachings.
13) Relativism: The philosophical stance of moral relativism, where moral principles are seen as
subjective and varying, can contribute to a lack of consensus on shared values, potentially leading
to erosion.
14) Lack of Role Models: A scarcity of positive role models who exemplify strong moral character
and values may contribute to the erosion of values, especially among younger generations looking
for guidance.
15) Failure of Institutions: Instances of corruption, misconduct, or ethical lapses within key
institutions, such as government, corporations, or religious organizations, can lead to a loss of
trust and contribute to the erosion of values.
Understanding and addressing these factors requires a comprehensive approach that involves
individuals, communities, educational systems, and institutions working together to promote and
uphold shared ethical principles.
Strengthening value education is crucial for fostering ethical behavior and character development.
Here are recommendations to enhance value education:
1) Holistic Integration: Seamlessly integrate values across the entire curriculum, ensuring that
ethical principles are incorporated into various subjects and educational activities.
2) Dedicated Values Curriculum: Develop a dedicated values education curriculum that explicitly
addresses moral reasoning, empathy, and the practical application of values in real-life situations.
3) Experiential Learning: Incorporate experiential learning opportunities, such as community service
projects, field trips, and internships, to provide students with practical experiences that
reinforce values.
4) Interactive Teaching Methods: Utilize interactive teaching methods, including group discussions,
case studies, role-playing, and collaborative projects, to actively engage students in exploring and
applying values.
5) Character Development Programs: Implement comprehensive character development programs
that focus on fostering positive character traits, virtues, and social-emotional skills.
6) Ethical Dilemma Discussions: Encourage open discussions about ethical dilemmas, allowing
students to explore different perspectives, practice critical thinking, and develop their own
moral compass.
7) Positive Role Models: Bring in guest speakers or mentors who exemplify strong values to share
their experiences. Positive role models can inspire and provide practical insights into living with
Integrity.
8) Service-Learning Projects: Integrate service-learning projects into the curriculum, allowing
students to apply values through community service while gaining a deeper understanding of social
responsibility.
9) Values-Based Literature and Media: Include literature, films, and media that emphasize moral
values and ethical decision-making. Analyzing such content can stimulate discussions about values
in diverse contexts.
10) Ethics Education for Educators: Provide ongoing training for educators on values, ethics, and
effective strategies for incorporating values into teaching. Teachers serve as key role models for
students.
11) Parental Engagement: Involve parents in value education initiatives through workshops, seminars,
and regular communication to create a consistent message about the importance of values.
12) Peer Mentorship Programs: Establish peer mentorship programs where older students guide
younger ones, emphasizing positive values, conflict resolution, and responsible behavior.
13) Digital Citizenship Education: Integrate education on digital citizenship, emphasizing responsible
online behavior, cyber ethics, and the impact of digital interactions on values.
14) Cultural Sensitivity Training: Provide training on cultural sensitivity and diversity, fostering an
understanding and appreciation of different cultural values.
15) Student-Led Initiatives: Empower students to take the lead in organizing values-oriented
events, awareness campaigns, or projects within the school community.
16) Values Assessments: Develop tools for assessing values comprehension and application, including
self-assessment, reflective essays, or project-based assessments that emphasize values.
17) Regular Reflection Time: Incorporate regular reflection sessions where students can
contemplate their values, personal growth, and the impact of their actions on themselves and
others.
18) Global Citizenship Education: Emphasize global citizenship education to instill a sense of
responsibility for the well-being of the global community and an understanding of shared values
across cultures.
19) Continuous Evaluation and Improvement: Regularly assess the effectiveness of value education
initiatives and make adjustments based on feedback, emerging challenges, and evolving societal
needs.
20) Professional Development for Educators: Provide ongoing professional development opportunities
for educators to enhance their understanding of values education and effective strategies for
implementation.