The Ethics Resource Center  defines values as principles that guide ethical behavior. 

James MacGregor Burns describes values as modes of conduct by which human enterprises should be conducted.

Dr. Richard Morrill  states that, Values can be defined as standards and patterns of choice that guide persons and groups towards satisfaction, fulfillment and meaning. 

Rushworth Kidder interviewed two dozen “men and women of conscience” to identity their views on the common values that can guide a troubled world through what promises to be a tumultuous future. They came up with the following eight.
1. Love
2. Truthfulness
3. Fairness
4. Freedom
5. Unity
6. Tolerance
7. Responsibility
8. Respect for Life