Abstract

The term “values” has been used in occidental ethics since the nineteenth century. Presently, discussions around ethical values include, e.g., freedom, justice, peace, sustainability, and tolerance. In the course of globalization, the significance of these values is to be interpreted as applicable to global society as a whole. This should also be taken into consideration with reference to cultural pluralism. Justice and tolerance are among those values that have a particularly high significance in the face of today’s global challenges. Fundamental ethical values have become binding in international law through the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.