Beliefs vs Values: Difference and Comparison

Belief can be defined as a set of assumptions made about the surroundings. The word ‘belief’ originated from an old English word ‘, gelaefa’.

Value can be defined as worthy of a particular entity. The word ‘value’ is derived from the Latin word ‘valere’.

Key Takeaways

1. Beliefs are convictions or accepted truths that individuals hold about the world, the universe, or themselves, based on personal experience, cultural norms, or faith.
2. Values are principles or standards that individuals consider important and use to guide their behavior, decision-making, and actions.
3. Both beliefs and values shape an individual’s outlook and actions, but beliefs are accepted truths, while values are guiding principles.

Beliefs vs Values

The difference between values and beliefs is based on their definition, the cause, the basis, the proof requirement and the factors it affects. Understanding the difference between values and beliefs is essential as they shape our personality and life.

Let us understand the word ‘belief’ through a sentence. For example, ‘religious texts are based on beliefs. This means that religious text is not proven data. People have beliefs that epics are accurate and that they need to follow.

Now let us understand the word ‘value’ in a sentence. For example, ‘feelings hold more value than money.

Belief has a vital role in the existence of a society. People with the same beliefs get along quickly.

The value defines the worth of any emotional or materialistic entity. Values are more complex than beliefs. Values grow from beliefs.

Since values are grown from beliefs, we need to understand the cause and origin of a belief. Belief is originated from what we hear, see or experience.

One can lead a prosperous and meaningful life with a better understanding of values and beliefs. One’s beliefs and values also affect the society one lives in.

 

Comparison Table

Parameters of Comparison	Beliefs	Values
Definition	Set of assumptions made about the surroundings or world	It is defined as worthy of any entity
Cause	It originated from tales and experiences	It stems from beliefs; strong beliefs get converted into values
Basis	It is based merely on prejudice	It is based on the belief
Proof Requirement	It does not require any proof and explanation	It grows out of a belief and things we consider important
Effect	It always affects our morals	It affects our behaviour, character and personality
Example	The world is divided into religious beliefs.	Customer service can add value to the business.

---

 

What is Belief?

Belief is an idea accepted as accurate without any facts or evidence. It varies from one society to another.

Most of the religious texts have no scientific or historical shreds of evidence. They are passed through tales, manuscripts, monuments and inscriptions.

Beliefs can be broadly classified based on their existence:

1. Political Belief
2. Religious Belief
3. Social Belief

Belief can be religious or non-religious. Beliefs can be divided into two major categories based on religion.

1. Monotheism
2. Polytheism

According to the monotheistic belief system, there is only one God. A few religious sects follow monotheism. 

1. Islam
2. Christianity
3. Judaism

According to the polytheism belief system, there are multiple gods. People can believe in and follow any God.

1. Hinduism 
2. Buddhism
3. Taoism or Daoism
4. Animism
5. Confucianism
6. Shinto

Not following any religious belief is classified as atheism. People following atheism are referred to as an atheist.

 

What is Value?

The value of an entity is the degree of importance it holds. The value of an entity is defined in terms of cash or importance.

The value of an entity decides its priority. Anything which is more valued is given a higher preference.

Values are beliefs that guide a believer’s action. Beliefs motivate physical and emotional action in the long term.

The value of an entity differs from consumer to consumer. There are four basic types of value.

1. Functional Value
2. Monetary Value
3. Social Value
4. Psychological Value

---

References

1. https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=UVPMESnqY0AC&oi=fnd&pg=PR8&dq=Beliefs+and+Values&ots=2OPqrTOTcW&sig=lWtM4uQ6dEh0EJQqOm7E_fmqNkU
2. https://www.uvm.edu/~dguber/POLS234/articles/feldman.pdf