Terminalikarvoja

Terminalikarvoja is a Finnish term used to describe terminal values, a concept in value theory that refers to end goals or desired states that people consider valuable in themselves. Terminal values are contrasted with instrumental values, which are seen as means to achieve those ends. The distinction helps explain why individuals and cultures prioritize different life goals and how these priorities shape attitudes and behavior.

The idea was popularized in modern psychology by Milton Rokeach in the 1970s and has since been applied across psychology, sociology, marketing, and political science. Terminal values are typically viewed as relatively stable and abstract, guiding long-term decisions and life planning. They are often organized into hierarchies within a person or culture, indicating which end states are most important.

Common examples of terminal values include happiness, freedom, equality, inner peace, self-respect, wisdom, and world peace. Other frequently cited end-states might be a comfortable life, mature love, or a sense of accomplishment. Because values vary across individuals and cultures, the relative importance of different terminal values can differ widely, and researchers use surveys and qualitative methods to explore these priorities.

In Finnish-language literature, terminalikarvoja appear in studies of personal and social values, consumer behavior, and organizational culture. When used in research, they are typically analyzed alongside instrumental values to understand how people’s end goals influence opinions, choices, and behavior. The precise lists and translations can vary by field and source, reflecting different theoretical frameworks and measurement tools.