Are There Universal Aspects in the Structure and Contents of Human Values?
1994/01/01 by Shalom H. Schwartz · 5,759 citations
Mathematics · Psychology · Social Sciences · #Cultural Differences and Values #Economics #Emotions and Moral Behavior #Epistemology #Human values #Law #Management science #Mathematics #Political science #Politics #Positive economics #Psychology #Social and Intergroup Psychology #Social psychology #Social science #Sociology #Statistics #Value (mathematics)
paper · doi:10.1111/j.1540-4560.1994.tb01196.x
published in Journal of Social Issues 50(4), 19-45 (Wiley)
openalex publication_date 1994/01/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/04
Abstract
This article presents a theory of potentially universal aspects in the content of human values. Ten types of values are distinguished by their motivational goals. The theory also postulates a structure of relations among the value types, based on the conflicts and compatibilities experienced when pursuing them. This structure permits one to relate systems of value priorities, as an integrated whole, to other variables. A new values instrument, based on the theory and suitable for cross‐cultural research, is described. Evidence relevant for assessing the theory, from 97 samples in 44 countries, is summarized. Relations of this approach to Rokeach's work on values and to other theories and research on value dimensions are discussed. Application of the approach to social issues is exemplified in the domains of politics and intergroup relations.
Citations
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