Values are a social relation, though. The pretty words are supposed to "groom" values, i.e. to brush them into alignment so that their recognition has more reach. They aren't necessarily intended as objectives to be met; unachievable ideals are especially effective at promoting action.
The late David Graeber wrote a five-volume treatise on value theory, some volumes which you might recognize as best sellers. His sum total definition of value as the importance of actions is very close to yours. Ultimately, we do social things because we think other people will recognize us for acting to realize that valued ideal. Here's the relevant chapter from _The False Coin of Our Own Dreams_, updated:
In the full book, he delves into the finer points of tokens of value, negative value, the repayment of gifts, magic, taboo, heirlooms, names as property, taxes as ritual sacrifice, and much, much more. I recommend it heartily to anyone working on the narrative plane.
Values are a social relation, though. The pretty words are supposed to "groom" values, i.e. to brush them into alignment so that their recognition has more reach. They aren't necessarily intended as objectives to be met; unachievable ideals are especially effective at promoting action.
The late David Graeber wrote a five-volume treatise on value theory, some volumes which you might recognize as best sellers. His sum total definition of value as the importance of actions is very close to yours. Ultimately, we do social things because we think other people will recognize us for acting to realize that valued ideal. Here's the relevant chapter from _The False Coin of Our Own Dreams_, updated:
https://davidgraeber.org/articles/value-as-the-importance-of-actions/
In the full book, he delves into the finer points of tokens of value, negative value, the repayment of gifts, magic, taboo, heirlooms, names as property, taxes as ritual sacrifice, and much, much more. I recommend it heartily to anyone working on the narrative plane.