Well said. I’ve just started really thinking about this. Although I would venture that people naturally develop value systems as they get older, whatever field they are in. It’s just that many of our existing institutions set you up to create values based on self interest and wealth. I think it’s unfortunate. But then again, can I really say my values are superior?
Good point, we definitely develop value systems as we get older as we move away from self-oriented to other-oriented thinking.
As far as which value system is better, I think the nature of developing a sophisticated value system is to be able to make judgments about values and come to these conclusions based on research, careful consideration, and testing against issues. So if you're spending time considering your values, you're inherently going to be judging those of others in the process, and altering your values until you get to the point where you feel yours are better. But of course, its also incumbent on you to remain open-minded to the idea you are wrong and to be honest in the face of new information.
