The idea of a theory of values and the metaphor of value-landscapes

This is a conceptual and methodological paper about improving our notion of human values. While it is recognized that talk of values has become increasingly popular in many walks of life, it is claimed that this is not underpinned by solid scientific contributions or a robust theory of values. Two initial claims set the scene for the paper: (1) there is no generally accepted theory of values, and (2) values are notoriously elusive. However, the paper acknowledges the problem that a better grasp on people’s values is needed for addressing the complex issues of our present-day life. An attempt is made to present an outline for an empirical axiology. After a brief historical overview of value discussions in social theory and philosophy, it is claimed that the empirical study of values needs to get around several hurdles: values-as-truisms, belief in articulated values, belief in deep and hidden values. However, combining several research methods may give first indications of what here is called value landscapes. A conceptual model of values in these landscapes would need to be multi-dimensional, with the tentative characteristics of proximity, intensity, contextuality, and malleability. The paper calls for transdisciplinary research designs to probe these conceptual insights.