What represents basic convictions that ‘a specific mode of conduct or end-state of existence is personally or socially preferable to an opposite or converse mode of conduct or end-state of existence’?

Correct option is C

Values are fundamental beliefs or principles that individuals or societies hold regarding what is desirable, good, or proper. They represent basic convictions about the preferability of certain behaviors or end-states over others. Values help shape attitudes and influence decision-making in both personal and social contexts.

Key aspects of values:

• They are deeply ingrained and guide human behavior.

• Values determine priorities in life and influence ethical choices.

• They can be individual or collective, shaping cultures, societies, and organizations.

• Examples include honesty, integrity, equality, freedom, and respect.

When a person believes that a certain behavior (e.g., telling the truth) or a state of existence (e.g., being independent) is better than its opposite (lying or dependency), it reflects their values.

Information Booster:

1. Values can be terminal or instrumental:

   • Terminal values relate to end goals (e.g., success, happiness, peace).

   • Instrumental values define the means to achieve goals (e.g., honesty, diligence).​

2. Personal vs. Social Values:

   • Personal values reflect individual beliefs (e.g., ambition, creativity).

   • Social values represent societal norms (e.g., justice, equality).

3. Values play a crucial role in organizational behavior, influencing work ethics, leadership styles, and corporate culture.

4. Cross-cultural differences in values affect communication, cooperation, and decision-making.

Additional Knowledge:

1. Ethics (Option 1):

   • Ethics refers to moral principles that govern right and wrong behavior in society.

   • While ethics is influenced by values, it is more about moral standards and rules rather than personal convictions about preferable behaviors.

2. Belief (Option 2):

   • A belief is an acceptance that something is true or exists, often based on faith, experience, or knowledge.

   • Unlike values, which guide decision-making and behavior, beliefs may or may not lead to actions.

   • Example: Someone may believe in astrology but not necessarily let it influence their daily choices.

3. Personality (Option 4):

   • Personality is the combination of emotional, cognitive, and behavioral traits that make a person unique.

   • It is inherent and shaped by genetics and environment, whereas values are more about learned convictions.

   • Example: A person may have an extroverted personality, but their values (e.g., humility or honesty) are learned.​