A new science, called Axiology, now enables businesses to objectively measure how a person makes decisions, without the need of observers. The science of Axiology enables us to identify our internal valuing systems and their influence on our perceptions, decisions, and actions. Axiology provides the mathematical and logical structure to the process of how a person thinks and perceives. Discovered by Dr Robert S. Hartman, who was nominated for a Nobel Prize for his research work, Axiology is governed by principles which order and structure all value judgments. He discovered that there are three dimensions to our value judgments: intrinsic (Intuitive Thinking), extrinsic (Pragmatic Thinking), and systemic (Conceptual Thinking) and it is how we balance these three dimensions that define the unique decision making ability of each individual.
Dr. Hartman constructed the original edition of the Hartman Value Profile (HVP) according to the 'Hierarchy of Values' which he developed and documented in his writings, "The Structure of Value". The HVP is an axiological instrument, an inventory that measures a person's capacity to make value judgments concerning the world and the self. There are two parts to the profile. The first is a list of 18 items pertaining to the world, while the second consists of 18 phrases related to the self. Axiology measures your ability to value. Your capacity to value is a talent or ability by which you organise your thinking and emotions to make decisions or value judgments. Your value talent is a measure of your ability to: See and filter what is happening around you, and in yourself Build concepts and ideas by focusing on what is important to you Translate your ideas and expectations into decisions. These three activities are the keys to understanding how we all make decisions.
Your ability to make value judgments is a natural activity of the mind and is similar to musical talent and ability. Each person has certain inborn skills or aptitudes. Some individuals have an ear for musical notes, while others can be taught to recognise the notes. Both types of individuals can develop their natural talent and apply this talent as musicians. In the same way, some individuals have better developed natural talent for making value judgments and can make better decisions. These individuals have a clearer idea of what is important, can see things which others miss, are very creative problem solvers, make decisions which always seem to be on target, and are sensitive to the needs and concerns of others. Value talent, like musical talent or sports talent, can be learned and improved. The first step in developing your value talent is to identify your level of development, and to identify the specific types of talent you have. A value analysis is designed to let you come into contact with your ability to think and make value judgments about yourself and the world around you. This analysis will give you an opportunity to experience the biases that focus your thinking, the natural skills that your mind uses on a day to day basis to make decisions, the strengths that belong to you, the areas of development that can improve your ability to be you, and the combination of talent that defines your uniqueness.
The Hartman Value Profile is especially useful for the following purposes:
It complements interest and aptitude tests for senior school and college-aged students to help discover their strengths and weaknesses and to help with their choice of career paths.
