Competing values: a magic polygon

Goals reflect values: Social and individual goal conflicts arise from the competition between our values. Politics and social sciences know the magic polygons. They visualize how certain goals can only be achieved at the expense of other goals – and values. moderning addresses decision-makers who deal with the advantages and disadvantages of decision alternatives on a daily basis in a solution-oriented manner.

Values: A magic polygon

We pursue goals because their fulfilment promises us a result in line with our values, or reject them if there are expected disadvantages. Example: The desire for career advancement compared to the desire for a safe, less risky job. Between goals – and between values – there is a certain conflict relationship, also known as a magic polygon, usually a triangle or square. A typical magic triangle is one where freedom, security and hedonism exist.  

Examples: Conflicts of values in crisis management

The “Corona” crisis management shows the conflict between freedom and security. On the other hand, the complementary interaction of freedom and hedonism manifests itself at parties. And: Freedom is limited where the rights of others are affected.

Need to decide – is there a balance of values?

As a result of the competition between values, we have to decide which values we are guided by and how much weight they give to our actions. The antagonism of the values creates an unstable equilibrium: in view of the dynamics of the environment, this weighting must be periodically reviewed and adjusted (e.g. tracking the change in values at customers in favor of sustainable production).

How does futurology deal with this challenge?

moderning identifies the values that determine the relationships between clients and their customers. The subsequent development of images of the future is based on a systemic understanding of the value cosmos. It takes into account interdependencies and leads to plausible expectations in the future. Here, the crystal stands for clear structures and transparency.