CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE EMPIRICAL STUDY OF VALUES AND THEIR SOCIAL DISSEMINATION

Objective: This article presents a critical reflection on the main definitions of the concept "values" found in the social sciences, always considering that a useful definition is that allowing the clear identification of an empirical object of study and the vereification of its results in social reality.. Methodology: A methodological proposal consisting of the analysis of metaphors and ontologies underlying the valuations expressed in discursive practices is proposed. Results: Previous research generally has presented hierarchical lists of words which supposedly stand for the most important values in a given society. However, these words say very little about people's true preferences and valuations in their everyday life. Conclusion:. It is concluded that the result of an investigation on values should not be a hierarchical list of words, but the deciphering of the logics behind the various types of valuations made by people.