The ethical aspects of the attitudes of the individual towards the values and goals scherished by the state

Abstract

The article shows that the values (good, well-being) cherished by the state are not “inner values” of ours as individuals. Our attitude towards what is well-being is conditioned by inner experience, ideals and priorities. Therefore, we have “to try on” the values proposed by the state under the provisions of our own, the scale of own values. Since the values proposed by the state are “external” to the individual concerned, they must not only be clearly identified but also critically assessed in order to ascertain the extent to which they go with violence (what is their “violence factor”) and the extent to which they acknowledge the individual’s right to choose. Even though the values proposed by the state are “external” to the individual, in order to realize them the state must find the ways that people would accept them and find the adequate expression. In other words, all the state goals must be aligned with the aspirations of members of the society and those aspirations must be expressed in an optimal way. Only in this case the goals and values cherished by the state from “external” can become “internal” – become closer to the individual and more or less acceptable. And the individual acting intentionally and purposefully will help the state realize its goals.