Definition of Absolute Value

This concept is applicable to two areas of knowledge, mathematics and ethics. On the other hand, in everyday language, the idea of ​​absolute value expresses that something has a validity by himself and not for other circumstances (for example, money has the value that we give it but the I respect life has an absolute value in itself).

In mathematics

In relation to arithmetic, the absolute value of any number refers to its magnitude and not to the sign it may have, positive or negative

Thus, the absolute value of -2 or +2 is the same, the number 2. Remember that all numbers except 0 are positive or negative, but the absolute value of a number is always positive. In mathematical terms, absolute value is an operation that allows any number to become positive.

Regarding the annotation of the absolute value of a number, an x ​​value appears between two vertical bars.

In ethical reflection, the debate between absolute values ​​and relative values ​​is addressed

When we speak of values ​​we refer to behaviors and we speak of the value of generosity or the value of sacrifice.

The values ​​of a society change over time and, on the other hand, in each traditioncultural there are some values ​​and not others. Consequently, we are dealing with relative values. In this way, values ​​depend on social or historical circumstances. Thus, tolerance, cooperation or solidarity They are ideas that have a changing value depending on the circumstances or opinions of each individual.

Universal ethical principles

When philosophers refer to absolute values ​​or universal ethical principles they try to emphasize that certain ideals are common to all cultures, to all times and to humanity in its set. Consequently, these ideals or values ​​are universal. In this way, certain forms of conduct They are considered universal because, despite some nuances or appreciations, it can be said that they have always been present in the human condition.

The Justice As an ethical value it has been transformed, but what has not changed is the idea of ​​justice. The same goes for the love, the truth, the Liberty or the truth. All these concepts may vary in their manifestation, but at the same time they are imperishable, that is, they are absolute values.

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