Introduction to Human Values |
I am a Computer. I write myself with a capital letter because I would like to be a person just like you so that way we could talk. I say I am a Computer and I cannot be more than a Computer. I would be nothing, if it was not for the electronic engineer that created me, and I must do that for which I was created. I cannot be something else, nor can I perfect myself by myself.
You, on the other hand, are a human being. And even though we do have in common that we were both created, the differences between you and I are abysmal.
Would you be able to tell me in what your superiority consist of?
You were created “intelligent” and “free”; able to know, to reason, to take decisions by yourself. This is your own being that you cannot change: you will always be a human being. However, because you are a person, you have infinite possibilities to perfect and/or deteriorate yourself! What I mean is that, in your hands, you have the power to decide “your own way of being”.
You can choose between being:
Responsible or irresponsible
Friend or enemy
Loyal or traitor
Strong or weak
Consistent or irregular
Obedient or rebel
Calm or nervous
Sincere or hypocrite
Simple or intricate
Ordered or chaotic
Comprehensive or intolerant
Hard working or lazy
Sober or drunk
Generous or egoistic
Fair or unfair
Prudent or reckless
Courageous or afraid
Bashful or rude
Happy or sad
Read the column on the left again.
Now, read the column on the right. You are in the position of choosing.
Which column do you choose? If you chose the column on the left, continue reading.
I want to help you become a perfect person. You have chosen the universal values that belong to every human being. Conquering these values must be the reason for all of your efforts.
In sum, it is about reaching your fullest human potential. I must warn you that progressing in one of these virtues also means progressing in many others. They do not exist by themselves; they are interrelated. Some support each other. C’mon! It is worth it!
If you chose the column on the right, turn off the computer. However, I must warn you that you are crazy, stupid or a monster. What a pity for Humanity!
(A translation of Don Samuel Valero’s original work.)
Instructions: select one of the buttons with letters a, b and c. The selected answer will appear in red.