Universal Values

The idea of cultural relativism, suggesting that there are no universal standards for what's right or wrong
across cultures, is flawed because universal values are more apparent and practical. These values are
commonly shared among various societies worldwide, despite differences in Western and Eastern
cultures. Whether personal, human, social, cultural, aesthetic, or spiritual, values such as family,
freedom, respect, honesty, education, love, and justice are universally upheld or practiced. Rachel (1993)
argued that cultural differences aren't as vast as they may seem. For instance, comparing two cultures:
one where eating cows is accepted and another where it's prohibited. However, the latter might abstain
from consuming cows due to beliefs that souls of the deceased inhabit animal bodies, particularly cows.
This illustrates that the variance lies in belief systems rather than core values. Factors like belief systems
and customs shape a society's culture, with values being just one aspect. Discrepancies in customs can
be attributed to various factors, suggesting that disagreements over values might be less prevalent than
they seem.

Rachel (1993) argues that despite cultural differences, there are common values shared among societies.
For example, the practice of infanticide does not necessarily indicate a fundamentally different attitude
towards children but rather a recognition that extreme measures are sometimes necessary for family
survival. Adoption is typically preferred over killing, with the latter seen as a last resort. The underlying
values of valuing infant life and prioritizing family survival remain consistent across societies; however,
external circumstances may force individuals to make choices they would otherwise avoid.

Rachel further posits that certain values must be considered universal standards that societies adhere to.
For instance, if a society does not uphold the value of truth-telling, effective communication becomes
challenging, if not impossible. Societies generally adhere to these standard values to ensure their
continuation, as deviating from them could lead to extinction, albeit with some exceptions.

Moral values, in particular, are considered universal values that are embraced and practiced globally.
These values, such as honesty, integrity, and respect, serve as foundational principles guiding behavior
and fostering positive relationships. Understanding and adhering to these moral values contribute to the
development of one's moral character.
Universal Values for Human Survival

It is indisputable that universal values play a crucial role in ensuring human survival. These values,
serving as moral principles, facilitate personal growth through qualities like honesty, dignity, respect,
integrity, and responsibility. By adhering to these moral principles, individuals contribute to creating a
better world and a future characterized by sound decisions and actions.

Certain moral rules are deemed essential for the functioning of any society. For instance, principles such
as refraining from lying and avoiding murder are universally recognized across cultures. While there may
be exceptional circumstances, these rules are generally regarded as abhorrent and non-negotiable. Not
all moral rules are subject to cultural variation; if the fundamental principle of valuing and respecting life
were not universal, it would likely result in increased instances of conflict, violence, extrajudicial killings,
and suicide. Such a scenario could lead to human extinction, as even minor disputes, misunderstandings,
or rivalries may escalate into acts of violence with potentially dire consequences.

In order to thrive, individuals must demonstrate kindness and compassion towards one another. These
moral values promote understanding among people, regardless of their race or nationality, indicating an
advanced level of cultural development. Values, as integral components of ethics, are vital for the
survival of the human race. This is why religions, families, institutions, cultures, and societies continually
evolve dynamically.

Secretary-General Kofi Annan (2003) supports the notion of universal values in his speech excerpt "On
Global Ethics" below:

"The values of peace, freedom, social progress, equal rights, and human dignity, as outlined in the
Charter of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, remain as relevant today
as they were when drafted over half a century ago by representatives from diverse nations and cultures.
While the world has made progress, these values are still not fully realized. However, they are now more
widely accepted than they were a few decades ago. The Universal Declaration, in particular, has been
incorporated into legal systems worldwide and serves as a reference point for those advocating for
human rights globally. In an era of globalization, universal values are more crucial than ever. Every
society requires common values to unite its members, providing shared principles to manage differences
peacefully. This necessity extends to both local and national communities. As globalization brings us
closer together, creating an interconnected global community, we must rely on global values to bind us.
We have witnessed the disastrous consequences of particularistic value systems, such as ethnic
cleansing, genocide, terrorism, and the propagation of fear, hatred, and discrimination. Confronting this
challenge requires a rigorous examination of universal values and how to uphold them. It is essential to
recognize that the validity of universal values does not hinge on their universal obedience or application.
Ethical codes serve as ideals and aspirations, providing a standard by which moral failings can be judged,
rather than a guarantee of their eradication."

Moreover, our universal values compel us to acknowledge the shared human traits, both positive and
negative, that we possess alongside all our fellow human beings. It requires us to extend the same level
of respect for human dignity and sensitivity to individuals from other communities as we expect them to
show towards ours. This entails being willing to allow others to define their own identity without
imposing our own classifications, however well-intentioned they may be. If we genuinely believe in
individual rights, we must understand that an individual's sense of identity is often intertwined with
belonging to one or more groups, sometimes overlapping or nested within each other. Therefore,
individual rights include the right to empathize and demonstrate solidarity with others who share
aspects of that individual's identity.

Universal values serve not to eradicate such differences but to aid in managing them with mutual
respect, without resorting to mutual destruction. Tolerance and dialogue are indispensable, as they
facilitate peaceful exchange of ideas and pave the way for mutually agreed-upon solutions that allow
different societies to progress in their unique ways. Values are not intended solely for the realm of
philosophers or theologians but are meant to assist individuals in living their lives and structuring their
societies.

At the international level, robust mechanisms of cooperation are needed to uphold universal values
while remaining adaptable enough to assist people in realizing those values according to their specific
circumstances. Ultimately, history will judge us not by our rhetoric but by our actions. Those who
vociferously advocate certain values, such as freedom, the rule of law, and equality before the law, bear
a special responsibility to embody these values in their own lives and societies. This includes applying
them to both allies and adversaries; tolerance should not be limited to those who share our viewpoints
or behaviors we approve of. In moments of anger, it is especially crucial to uphold our professed
principles of humility and mutual respect.

Furthermore, we must never be complacent with the status quo, given the state of the world. At the
United Nations, there may be a temptation to assert our inherent utility and relevance to the world
while blaming Member States for underutilizing such a valuable institution. However, this is insufficient.
We must strive to enhance the United Nations, making it more beneficial to the peoples of the world in
whose name it was established, and more exemplary in applying the universal values that all its
members claim to endorse. This entails becoming more effective in various aspects of our work,
particularly in our efforts to promote and safeguard human rights.

Human rights and universal values are closely intertwined, provided we acknowledge that rights are not
standalone concepts. They come with a corresponding set of responsibilities, which hold significance
only in situations where individuals have the capability to fulfill them. In other words, the principle
"ought implies can" applies here.

Now, what is my response to the thought-provoking question that serves as the title of my discussion?
Do universal values still exist? Yes, they do, but we must not take them for granted. They require careful
consideration, defense, and reinforcement. Moreover, we must find the resolve within ourselves to abide
by the values we espouse – in our personal lives, within our local and national communities, and on a
global scale.