L Robert Kohls View on Understanding American Values Essay Example

the idea that Americans believe they can control their own fate, that each person is equal to each other, that we have the right to privacy, and change is good and brings about personal growth. The outer beliefs dictate the relationship structure with others and include the values of being open and honest with each other, that being informal is a sign of respect, competition produces results, and we are not reliant on our birthright to get ahead.

To further understand the inner values the value of self or “Self-Help” is very important to comprehend. In the average American-English dictionary there are over 100 words that begin with the prefix of “self”(Kohls, 1984, p. 4) while in other languages the equivalent prefix is often not found. As he lists many words that start with self, such as self-esteem, self-respect, and self-control it is apparent that in America, being a “self-made” person is very important (Kohls, 1984, p. 4).

As individuals, Americans believe we are all created equal and this egalitarian view of self is what allows the belief of control over destiny. Americans believe that because their own destiny is determined by their actions, then the actions they take, or the effort they put forth will determine their level of success which in turn allows them to own and acquire material items. When someone knows or believes that certain actions will produce probable results, the ability to be motivated and work hard is increased. Actions are rewarded and no dependent on fate.

If someone feels their work will result in a benefit to them and will amount to something then their long-term

goals will be changed. Kohls makes note that it does not really matter if these values are actually true (Kohls, 184, p. 2) but since the person holding the value believes it is true their actions will follow the belief and they will then effect the change to happen. As Americans follow the values that can be considered inner values or beliefs they are able to shape their own view of the world and its possibilities.

Since Americans possess a different personal world view than some others, naturally how they value social interactions, or their outer values are also affected. The US values place a larger emphasis on personal achievement over personal relationships, often this might be seen as rude rather than as a value to be admired. Time is seen as a precious commodity and should not be wasted; time is usually more appreciated than relationships. By always striving to get as much done as efficiently as possible, practices and methods are placed with a higher priority over people and feelings.

Since Americans value time they often feel like they do not want to waste time with unnecessary formalities, niceties, or banter. If an idea needs to be expressed the fastest way to get it presented is often the route taken in order to maximize efficiency. This can lead to people with a different value that is based more on people rather than maximizing time views Americans as rude or inconsiderate (Kohls, 1984, p. 3). Instead of demonizing competition as a source of strife, Americans embrace it and see it as a valuable tool to increase productivity among competing businesses and people.