Instrumental Values

Definition

Instrumental values are the means or methods used to achieve desired end-states or terminal values. They are the beliefs about the most effective ways to behave or act in order to realize one's core values and achieve personal goals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Instrumental values are often more malleable and flexible than terminal values, as they can be adapted to different situations and contexts.
2. The development of instrumental values is influenced by an individual's life experiences, cultural background, and social environment.
3. Effective leaders and decision-makers often have a strong understanding of their own instrumental values and how to align them with their terminal values.
4. Conflicts can arise when an individual's instrumental values are not aligned with their terminal values, leading to internal struggles and potentially unethical behavior.
5. Regularly reflecting on and refining one's instrumental values can help an individual become more self-aware and intentional in their actions and decision-making.

Review Questions

• Explain the relationship between instrumental values and terminal values.
  • Instrumental values are the means or methods used to achieve desired end-states or terminal values. They are the beliefs about the most effective ways to behave or act in order to realize one's core values and achieve personal goals. Instrumental values are often more flexible and adaptable than terminal values, as they can be adjusted to different situations and contexts. The development of instrumental values is influenced by an individual's life experiences, cultural background, and social environment, and they play a crucial role in aligning an individual's actions with their terminal values.
• Analyze how an individual's instrumental values can impact their decision-making and behavior.
  • An individual's instrumental values can have a significant impact on their decision-making and behavior. Effective leaders and decision-makers often have a strong understanding of their own instrumental values and how to align them with their terminal values. Conflicts can arise when an individual's instrumental values are not aligned with their terminal values, leading to internal struggles and potentially unethical behavior. Regularly reflecting on and refining one's instrumental values can help an individual become more self-aware and intentional in their actions, ensuring that their behavior is consistent with their core values and goals.
• Evaluate the role of instrumental values in the development of an individual's value system and ethical decision-making.
  • Instrumental values play a crucial role in the development of an individual's comprehensive value system, which includes both instrumental and terminal values. These values guide the individual's decision-making and behavior, including their ethical decision-making. When an individual's instrumental values are aligned with their terminal values, they are more likely to make decisions and take actions that are consistent with their core beliefs and desired end-states. However, when there is a disconnect between instrumental and terminal values, it can lead to internal conflicts and potentially unethical behavior. By regularly reflecting on and refining their instrumental values, individuals can become more self-aware and intentional in their actions, ultimately strengthening their overall value system and ethical decision-making.

Related terms

Terminal Values:

Terminal values are the desired end-states or outcomes that a person strives to attain, such as happiness, success, or making a positive impact on the world.

Value Hierarchy: The ranking or prioritization of an individual's values, with instrumental values serving as the means to achieve the more important terminal values.

Value System: An individual's comprehensive set of values, including both instrumental and terminal values, that guide their decision-making and behavior.