Personal value judgement has been a matter of concern in contemporary society. The fact that affluence and position determine the status of an individual, while moral worth comes afterwards is a common belief. Although I would agree that people are valued based more on their wealth and social standing these days, I still uphold the view that traditional values continue to hold great importance.
On the one hand, the emphasis on material riches can be mainly attributed to the fact that they are tangible evidence involving human living standards. It is undeniable that valuable properties, such as houses or cars, will definitely align with working; in other words, the more time we spend in the labour market, the more money we earn. Therefore, hard work will be one of the factors revealed through our possessions. Moreover, wealth is likely to enable a comfortable and luxurious lifestyle, providing individuals with the means to engage in various experiences that contribute to their happiness and leisure.
On the other hand, I argue that conventional values, namely honour, kindness and trust, continue to exert a crucial influence on human existence. These attributes enable people to build connections within society and foster meaningful relationships, which are essential for achieving success. To explain, when individuals consistently exhibit these virtuous traits, their actions resonate with others, leading to increased respect and admiration. A strong reputation built on these values enhances a person’s overall value within their community, workplace, or social circles as a consequence.
In conclusion, since external factors and characters have their own influence on personal worth, to foster a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of human worth, it is imperative to embrace a balance between material achievements and the enduring virtues that have shaped societies throughout history.