Values as the foundation of culture: historical overview and modern views

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of the phenomenon of values, their role in the formation of human behavior and cultural characteristics. The author begins by stating the fact that values ​​are an integral part of our being, influencing language, thinking and social interactions. However, despite their importance, values ​​remain a complex and understudied phenomenon. The author turns to the study of values ​​in a historical context, in particular, to the contribution of anthropologists. The ideas of Clyde Kluckhon, who moved away from the relativistic approach in anthropology, confirming the existence of universal human values, are considered in detail. In addition, the author analyzes the work of Florence Kluckhon and Fred Strodtbeck, who, continuing the work of Clyde Kluckhon, developed a detailed typology of value orientations. The Spiral Dynamics Model developed by Claire W. Graves is examined in detail as an innovative approach to the study of values ​​that views values ​​as evolutionary structures that change depending on historical and social contexts. The theory of Sh. Schwartz is analyzed as one of the most influential theories in value research. It allows to compare the values ​​of different cultures, understand why people have different attitudes to various phenomena, and predict their behavior. The role of values ​​in the organization of social systems is studied. The author refers to the classic works of T. Parsons and E. Shils, who consider values ​​as fundamental elements of culture that integrate various social actions.