Meaning of National Values

National values can be defined as a representation of the paramount values upheld throughout the common cultural experience of the nation.

It can also be defined as the accepted principles or standards of a group of people.

It is a personal measure of worth, such as how important an individual considers certain things; beliefs, principles or ideas people attach to things based on their sense of values.

Values are standards, rules and criteria that influence and determine how the individual should behave in a society.

Some examples of values include honesty, discipline, integrity, hard work, commitment, etc.

Most people prefer to work with people that exhibit good values. When one exhibits good values in the school, at home and at the place of work, it will make many people to love him or her. It also deals with likes and dislikes.

Levels of Manifestation of National Values

(i) Individual Values

An individual may derive his values from various ways, which may include parental influence, community, cultural and religious teaching, the media, school and peer groups.

Most parents want their children to develop values similar to theirs, though members of the same family may have different values. Open and honest communication about specific values can help young people to broaden their outlook and understand importance of values.

(ii) Societal Values

There are certain values, norms and attitudes of a society which are developed over a long period of time. As we mature in the society, we are made to learn and acquire such values which are cherished by the society.  Such values can be learnt mostly through our rules and regulations.

IMPORTANCE OF VALUES IN THE SOCIETY

Importance of Values in the Society

Values are important to the society in the following ways:

1. National values may help in decision making as it tends to help us to take rational decisions based on the importance attached to a thing.
2. Basic human values also promote positive or good relationship among people when they all accept such societal norms, attitudes or ways of doing things.
3. Understanding our value system helps us to resist pressure to conform to other people’s values and behaviour which may not be acceptable to the generality of people.
4. If we do not act in accordance with our values, we may be ashamed and disappointed.
5. National values guide human behaviour, give purpose and direction to our lives since they are acceptable ways of behaviour recognized by the society.
6. National values also enhance good behaviour, attitudes and feelings in the society.

Summarily, values are relevant in good decision making, promote good relationship, help to build personal integrity and enhance good behaviour that is acceptable in the society.

EVALUATION

1. Enumerate five importance of national values
2. What is National Values?
3. Give five examples of National Values
4. What is national values?
5. List two levels of manifestation of values.
6. Explain the following terms: (a) Societal values (b) Individual values
7. How is societal values acquired?
8. Give five examples of national values.