Increasingly, more and more of us are examining our values and our value systems. This volume introduces the concept of values based on a scientific understanding of the branch of philosophy known as axiology. Dr. Bahm defines six pairs of values which he believes are fundamental. They are presented in pairs, but it does not preclude the fact that most values are mixed. They are: 1. the good and the bad; 2. ends and means; 3. actual and potential values; 4. subjective and objective values; 5. apparent and real values; and, 6. pure and mixed values. He also includes a method for sorting out one's own personal values. He explicates his understanding of the scientific method as applied to value inquiry and value judgments.

What ought we to do? Dr. Bahm examines the power oughtness has in compelling the choice between the greater good over the lesser good for oneself; and, for humanity. He defines two kinds of oughtness: actual and conditional.

What is rightness versus righteousness? What is the self and what is self-interest? Personal ethics and social ethics are discussed in detail with emphasis on group and cultural ethics. We often find ourselves facing distinct moral dilemmas to which solutions cannot be legislated by law, but which must be freely debated. This volume provides guidelines and background for such a debate. Dr. Bahm believes that ethics can be based on a scientific rationale which does not subscribe to the logical positivist claim that science is value-free.