Values and behaviour LO8603

Ben Compton (BCOMPTON@novell.com)
Mon, 22 Jul 1996 09:30:53 -0600

Replying to LO8571 --

Joan states,

> One explanation which makes some sense is that we developed most of our
> behavior before being able to understand values, if we ever really do. We
> have no behavior when born and develop most of it by copying from+
> others. Often, a particular behavior is a combination of what we took from
> several other people. Since the behavior we are copying probably does not
> meet normally acceptable value standards, there is little chance that our
> copy will do so.

Joan, I think little children do have values. My three year old definitely
has values -- and, when he cannot achieve the things he values, he throws
a temper-tantrum. Sure, he doesn't know that he has _values_ and that the
fact that these values are presently unattainable which is the source of
his frustration. . .but he is still trying to behave in accordance with
his values.

I think the issue isn't when do we develop values -- or the capacity to
value things -- the greater issue is when do we become aware that these
values influence (or at least attempt to influence) or behavior? And,
then, when do we begin the process of deliberately reviewing and refining
our value structures?

-- 

Benjamin B. Compton ("Ben") | email: bcompton@novell.com Novell GroupWare Technical Engineer | fax: (801) 222-6991

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