ABSTRACT
For many, the issue of European values is clear and gives rise to no questions or doubts; but, in fact, the problem is quite complex and multidimensional. Furthermore, authors and speakers avoid (often quite intentionally) presenting their position on the issue; unfortunately, that does not facilitate discussion. This chapter sets out the clear opinion of the author regarding European values. It consists of five main sections. It starts with a brief description of two axiological theories (idealism and materialism) and juxtaposes their assumptions (2.2.). It proceeds by presenting two perspectives on European culture and values (2.3.). The first is a traditional vision of European cultural formation as based on three pillars (2.3.1.), the second applies a sociological concept of super-culture coined by Pitirim A. Sorokin (2.3.2.). Section 2.4. and 2.5., respectively, investigate viable ways of how a list of European values could be formulated, describe their general characteristics, and ascertain the Rule of Law as one of the European values. Finally (2.6.), this chapter refers to the importance of the European values and the Rule of Law in the process of European integration. It concludes in Section 2.7.
