An Unruly Victim Tamed. What Things Are Done to Values?

This chapter, “An Unruly Victim Tamed” explores the dynamic nature of human values and their susceptibility to external influences. Drawing a parallel between celestial mechanics and moral mechanics, the chapter examines how values have evolved over time, narrowing their orbit around humanity and fragmenting into a rotating ring of ideals. The discourse delves into the malleability of values, challenging the notion of fixed, unchanging substances. It questions the control and influence over values, analyzing the interplay between subjects and the values they uphold. The chapter discusses philosophical perspectives, including Nietzsche’s concept of transvaluation and Nozick’s value ethics. It highlights the auction principle that pervades modern society, where values are negotiable and subject to rapid fluctuations. The narrative acknowledges the complexity of values administration, their adaptability, and the need for responsible handling. Ultimately, the chapter emphasizes the importance of understanding and effectively managing the fluid and evolving nature of values in contemporary life.