The Values Institute of America is a non-sectarian educational organization focusing on shared values in a diverse culture.

Dr. James MacGregor Burns, a member of our Network Board, wrote: “Values are not only standards by which we measure our character, our transactions our policies and plans. They are enormously evocative and revitalizing ideas for which men and women fight and die. Hence they are transforming forces.”

We define values as principles for living that we take seriously and that guide our behavior.

American adults when asked by the Gallop Organization which were the most important most often selected:

TRUTH, RESPONSIBILITY, FREEDOM,
SELF-RESPECT, FAIRNESS AND COMPASSION

These are good examples of the values we promote. When applied universally, they will be transforming forces.