What would an instrumental value be?

Instrumental values refer to the means or behaviors that are considered important in achieving our terminal values, which are the ultimate goals we want to reach in life. In this context, acting in a helpful manner is an instrumental value because it represents a behavior that can lead to achieving greater goals, such as building relationships or fostering community. This supportive behavior can facilitate cooperation and open communication, which are essential in reaching ultimate personal or social aspirations.

On the other hand, options like being successful, being at peace with oneself, and feeling happy are considered terminal values. They represent the end states of existence that we strive for, whereas acting in a helpful manner is a means through which we can pursue those end goals. Understanding this distinction between instrumental and terminal values is crucial in consumer behavior, as it helps in understanding how consumers' actions (instrumental values) are motivated by their broader life goals (terminal values).