The Need of Upbringing with Values in Mind in the Post-Normative Epoch

Abstract

The contemporary times are characterized by a radical withdrawal from the traditional principles of normative ethics. The commonly encountered attitudes are axiological pluralism, permissivism, and moral relativism. The results of research on attitudes and preferences of young Poles indicate towards a clear advantage of interest in hedonistic and utilitarian values, as well as a disrespectful approach to the examples of order and harmony. What is instead valued are such moral values as honesty, honor, and helpfulness. However, we need to ask whether the research method adequately reflects the real preferences. It is possible that the axiological disorientation among youth has its roots in the lack of skills of a proper understanding and expression of own intuition in the area of values. The author suggests that we should contemplate alternative methodology, modeled and based on the Ph. Johnson-Laird’s situation analysis.