The Relativity of Value by Philip

The Relativity of Value by Philip - July 2016 Scholarship Essay

The famously excellent basketball coach John R. Wooden once said, “I think the teaching profession contributes more to the future of our society than any other single profession.” In my experience, he is absolutely right. Teachers shape us during our youth more than almost anyone else. I have learned invaluable principles from each and every one of my teachers, both in and out of the classroom. However, the lesson that has influenced me most, one that I will cultivate to keep alive in me, is a concept I learned under the tutelage of my Government and Economics teacher, Mr. Parr. At the beginning of the semester in high school Economics, he stressed in his resonating voice, “Value is relative!” With that, he had my attention, and his proposition made me think. He related that this principle underpins the whole of modern economic theory; however, this basic teaching served equally to enlighten my ideology surrounding interpersonal relationships.
In his classroom lectures, Mr. Parr amply discussed the fact that because different people assign different values to different commodities, all trades and transactions that make up the free market take place. When one person possesses a good or service that another values more highly than something he or she owns, the difference facilitates a market transaction. In this way, the idea that value does not hold constant forms the foundation for much of our supply-and-demand economic theory. However, I realized that it has even farther-reaching ramifications in my dealings with others.
The concept that different people value items in myriad ways highlighted to me an essential aspect of a fulfilling, cooperative, and productive life—relationships founded on respect for each party’s values. I have things that I value very highly, like everyone. However, these things may not be exactly the same for other people. From preferences in dress, music, or food, to hobbies or politics, my values are my own, but they need not dictate agreement from anyone else. In fact, it would be extreme arrogance to believe that my values are some kind of objective standard. To expect others to esteem my standards over their own is untenable. I have made this mistake, believing that I am right, trying to convince, cajole, or even coerce others to adapt, and met with limited success. Mr. Parr’s lesson on value emphasized the error in my behavior and elucidated the wisdom of the adage: “It takes all kinds to make the world go ‘round.” Beyond a personal level, however, such egotism can effect a community-wide loss of diversity in values, interests, and ideas (things that ultimately morph into talents, abilities, and innovations), thereby depriving all of us. For this reason, I am committed, in both my current and future relationships, to an awareness that my preferences and desires are not inherently better than those held by others.
Of course, this concept flows both ways; other people’s values are no more arbitrarily correct than my own. Rather, as the American Founders stated in the Declaration of Independence, “All men are created equal,” and, as a result, have a right to “the pursuit of happiness.” Appropriate humility in relationships does not mandate subservience to my friends’ opinions; rather, it requires me to thoughtfully respect and consider their viewpoints and preferences. Though I believe in absolute truth and morality, I also recognize that a “give and take” factor is essential in any relationship. However, my core values, such as my commitment to integrity, a strong work ethic, and my foundational belief in God, remain inviolate and must not be compromised. Keeping in mind Mr. Parr’s academic lesson on value, I believe I can foster strong, healthy relationships, in my life and in the lives of those around me, that are based upon the twin foundations of esteem for the ideas and opinions of others and humble self-respect.
Not only will the lesson of “relativity of value” aid me in forming friendships and professional relationships, but it will make me a more productive and efficient student and worker. Learning to give the respect inherently due to others’ ideas will make me a much better collaborator. In today’s environment, effective group project participation will increase my success in college classes and enhance my appeal to future potential employers. Ensuring that I remember the equality of my values to those of others makes possible the team spirit that is indispensable for creativity and progress in the 21st Century. Therefore, because of my increased understanding of harmonious and cooperative personal and professional relationships, I believe that Mr. Parr’s statement—“Value is relative”—is the most important lesson I have ever learned from a teacher.