But many basic assumptions may need to be challenged and revitalised, and no side has all the answers. At least since the times of Socrates and Jesus, this has been a dangerous kind of activity. They reflect the use of abstract language, in terms of which alternative possibilities may be envisioned. Human evaluative processes also reflect biological and unconscious needs. Validation based upon shared experience is a more trustworthy foundation than imagined absolutes.
Values are always provisional, i.e. subject to revision in the light of experience.
We live in schizoid societies, in which values, societal programs and daily activities are often in conflict, which may or may not be recognised. Thus, it is of the utmost importance that the values which govern performance in various areas be open to assessment. Performance criteria should be able to distinguish such uses. Among the most important values which influence human lives and events we know that power looms very large. Certainly desires for power and sex are major motivating forces.