Values and behaviour LO8626

Matzdorf, Fides (F.Matzdorf@shu.ac.uk)
Tue, 23 Jul 96 19:14:00 0BS

Replying to LO8603 --

Ben writes,

>Joan, I think little children do have values. My three year old definitely
>has values -- and, when he cannot achieve the things he values, he throws
>a temper-tantrum. Sure, he doesn't know that he has _values_ and that the
>fact that these values are presently unattainable which is the source of
>his frustration. . .but he is still trying to behave in accordance with
>his values.

Are you sure, Ben, that what you're talking about is _values_? I have
doubts about it - I would say that your little one has wishes, needs,
desires, but that does not necessarily imply any *values* in the sense of
this ongoing discussion. I think the English language is a bit confusing
here: if we say that we *value* something, i.e. attach value to it, this
does not define the _kind_ of value. I understand that this thread is
mainly about ethical/moral values, whereas your little one *values*
probably something of a more material nature (I guess you're talking about
_things_ when referring to something "presently unattainable"...?)

Correct me if I'm wrong.

Fides

Sheffield Hallam University
F.Matzdorf@shu.ac.uk

-- 

"Matzdorf, Fides" <F.Matzdorf@shu.ac.uk>

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