Schwartz's theory of universal values (1992) identifies 10 stable motivational values, validated across more than 80 cultures. It predicts political behaviour, life choices and long-term marital stability.
The ten values
Freedom of thought, creativity, independence. A core value for people who refuse conformity.
Novelty, challenge, excitement. Close to Big Five Openness. In natural tension with Security.
Pleasure, satisfying desires. Can coexist with strong altruistic values.
Personal success, demonstrated competence. In tension with Benevolence if too dominant.
Social status, control over resources. A value often under-reported in self-assessments.
Stability, order, harmony. Often in tension with Stimulation and Self-direction.
Restraint of actions likely to harm others or violate social norms.
Respect for cultural or religious customs. Often correlated with Conformity.
Preserving the welfare of close ones. Honesty, loyalty, forgiveness in intimate relationships.
Tolerance and protection for all beings. An ecological and humanist value.
The four broad quadrants
Schwartz organises the 10 values along two axes: Openness to change vs. Conservation and Self-transcendence vs. Self-enhancement. Marital conflict often arises between values in opposite quadrants: a partner high in "Stimulation + Self-direction" with another high in "Security + Tradition" will face structural tension over major life decisions.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you have several high values at once?
Yes, but some values are naturally in tension in Schwartz's circular model. High scores on opposite values can indicate a social-desirability response.
Do values change over time?
Slowly. Major life experiences can re-weight priorities, notably towards more Security and Benevolence. But the core profile stays fairly stable.
What's the difference with the Worldview test?
The Worldview test explores concrete political and social values. The Schwartz test measures the deep motivational values that underlie those positions.