What are values primarily defined as?

Values are primarily defined as deeply held ideas, beliefs, customs, and principles. They represent the fundamental beliefs that guide individuals' behaviors and decision-making processes. Values often shape how a person interacts with others, their ethical considerations, and their outlook on life. These principles serve as a foundation for how individuals prioritize their actions and the judgments they make about what is important in life.

For instance, core values such as honesty, integrity, respect, and responsibility are examples of deeply held beliefs that can influence a person's character and their interactions with society. These values are often instilled through family, culture, and life experiences, forming a significant part of an individual’s identity.

In contrast, personal opinions and preferences do not carry the same weight as values; they can change more frequently and are often based on individual tastes rather than societal norms or ethical standards. Suggestions and recommendations are typically advice given based on experience but are not deeply ingrained beliefs. Financial investments and gains relate solely to economic considerations and do not reflect the moral or ethical dimensions that values embody.