Belief can be defined as a set of assumptions made about the surroundings. The word ‘belief’ originated from an old English word ‘gelaefa’. The word ‘belief’ was coined in the late twelfth century.
Value can be defined as worthy of a certain entity. The word ‘value’ is derived from the Latin word ‘valere’. The word value was coined in the mid-fifteenth century.
Beliefs vs Values
The main difference between values and beliefs are based upon their definition, the cause, the basis, the proof requirement and the factors it affects. It is important to understand the difference between values and beliefs as they shape our personality and life.
Let us understand the word ‘belief’ through a sentence. For example, ‘religious texts are based or beliefs’. This means that religious text is not a proven data. People have beliefs that epics are real and that they need to follow. This has no scientific explanation or evidence supporting the statement. But it is the understanding of the people that it is true.
Now let us understand the word ‘value’ in a sentence. For example, ‘feelings hold more value than money’. This sentence means that feelings are more important than money. This value grew from a belief. A belief that lasts long and grow strong converts into belief.
Belief has an important role in the existence of a society. People with the same beliefs get along easily. They define the working of society. They act and react according to their beliefs.
The value defines the worth of any emotional or materialistic entity. Values are harder than beliefs. Values grow from beliefs. The value defines the importance of anything.
Since values are grown from beliefs, we need to understand the cause and origin of a belief. Belief is originated from what we hear, see or experience. They may or may not hold any scientific explanation. Beliefs can be true or vague. The world is full of some amazing and some weird beliefs. Belief comes from one’s understanding.
With a better understanding of values and belief, one can lead a prosperous and meaningful life. One’s belief and values also affect the society they live in. So it is extremely important to understand the main differences between values and beliefs and make good choices in the future.
Comparison Table Between Beliefs and Values (in Tabular Form)
| Parameters of Comparison | Beliefs | Values |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Set of assumptions made about the surroundings or world | It is defined as worthy of any entity |
| Cause | It is originated from tales and experiences | It stems from beliefs; strong beliefs gets converted into values |
| Basis | It is based merely upon prejudice | It is based upon belief |
| Proof Requirement | It does not require any proof and/or explanation | It grows out of a belief and things we consider important |
| Effect | It always affects our morals | It affects our behaviour, character and personality |
| Example | The world is divided into religious beliefs. | Customer service can add value to the business. |
What is Belief?
Belief is an idea that is accepted as true without any facts or evidence. It varies from one society to another. They are not supported by science, facts or shreds of evidence. Beliefs are passed from one generation to another.
Most of the religious texts have no scientific or historic evidences. They are passed through tales, manuscripts, monuments and inscriptions. These tales and writings are regarded as real without questioning their existence.
Beliefs can be broadly classified on the basis of its existence as:
- Political Belief
- Religious Belief
- Social Belief
Belief can be religious or non-religious. Beliefs can be divided into two major categories on the basis of religion.
- Monotheism
- Polytheism
According to the monotheism belief system, there is only one God. Monotheism is followed by a few religious sects.
- Islam
- Christianity
- Judaism
According to the polytheism belief system, there are multiple God. People can believe and follow any God. Polytheism is followed by a various religious sect.
- Hinduism
- Buddhism
- Taoism or Daoism
- Animism
- Confucianism
- Shinto
Not following any religious belief is classified as atheism. People following atheism are referred to as an atheist. They don’t believe in God. Not believing in anything is itself a belief.
What is Value?
Value of an entity is the degree of importance it holds. Value of an entity is defined in terms of cash or importance. Value of a materialistic object is its financial worth in the market. Value of emotion or behaviour is measured in terms of its importance.
Value of an entity decides its priority. Anything which is more valued is given a higher preference. Value is a result of how strong one’s belief is. Stronger the belief, the higher the value.
Values are beliefs that guide believers action. Beliefs motivate physical and emotional action for the long term. Values describe the qualities of that person. Value is the acting force between a person and the relationship he or she has with the motive of their life.
Value of an entity differs from consumer to consumer. There are four basic types of value. It is categorized based on the importance it holds.
- Functional Value
- Monetary Value
- Social Value
- Psychological Value
Conclusion
Beliefs and values are inter-related. But they cannot be misunderstood as same. Beliefs are the ideas which we accept and values are its importance. Right belief and value can build a peaceful society. An individual has all the right to stand by any belief. And it is equally important to respect different beliefs.
Right understanding and commitment to a belief can develop into a strong value. Awareness about the importance of belief and value can lead to a confusion-free life. Clarity between values and beliefs can bring a significant and positive change in society. The right blend of beliefs and values will lead to an integrated and respectful society.
References
- https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=UVPMESnqY0AC&oi=fnd&pg=PR8&dq=Beliefs+and+Values&ots=2OPqrTOTcW&sig=lWtM4uQ6dEh0EJQqOm7E_fmqNkU
- https://www.uvm.edu/~dguber/POLS234/articles/feldman.pdf