1.1.4 Perspectives on Beliefs and Values


The three statements below present differing views about how beliefs and values influence us as individuals, as well as our society. Read and consider the following:

We are born believing. A man bears beliefs as a tree bears apples.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

What distinguishes the majority of men from the few is their inability to act according to their beliefs.

John Stuart Mill

I would never die for my beliefs because I might be wrong.

Bertrand Russell



Beliefs and values form the basis for both our identities and the ideologies we as individuals or members of a collective uphold. Often these are shared amongst families, friends, regions, religions, and even from our role models. Similarities in beliefs between two individuals can help form and maintain collectives, bringing these people together. This same process can also explain why various individuals and collectives with more distinct differences may find themselves at odds with each other more frequently.

Values and beliefs are highly personal and subjective. It is these ideas that form our personal ideology.

For example:

  • Do you believe we are born believing certain things, or we develop these over time?

  • When do you act according to your beliefs? 

  • How strongly held are your beliefs?  Would you die for them? Or, like Bertrand Russell, do you think your beliefs could be wrong?


Choose ONE of the statements presented in the coloured boxes above, and brainstorm some answers to the questions below. This will help you develop the analytical skills required for success in the course.


    1.  What ideas about values and beliefs are presented in the source?
    2. Explain the author's ideas in your own words.
    3. To what extent do you agree with the perspective presented in the source?

    See an example of how to answer these questions here.