The Science of Axiology

What is the Science of Axiology?

Axiology is the science of identifying internal valuing systems that influence our perceptions, decisions and actions.  It is able to identify the thinking that motivates or de-motivates our behaviors and drives our actions.

Shortly before his death in 1973, Dr. Robert S. Hartman was nominated for the Nobel Prize for his contributions in value measurement using Axiology.  Hartman’s value mathematics make it possible to measure how we value the world and ourselves with the elegance of mathematical precision.

Objectivity and Validity

• Because Axiology is a mathematical science, the Hartman Value Profile is not a subjective assessment.  Consequently, no other assessment instrument has/or can have this type of hard/objective data to support validity.  Over 120 studies have been used to validate the Axiological model.  Time and again, rigorous research and analyses resulted in a 99.9% confidence level or a correlation of p<.05 to <.001. In terms of objective, reproducible diagnostics other assessment instruments are the equivalent of an X-ray while axiological instruments yield the detail and precision of an MRI.

How are Axiological Assessments Different?

• The assessment is not a psychological, intelligence, or aptitude test.  Unlike other assessments, it does not rely upon your subjective identification of what you are more/less like.  The assessments measure  the thinking, judgment, and valuing that allows one to access, control and utilize their talents, knowledge, and skills.

• Unlike other profiles that are time intensive and have multiple pages of questions that repeat the same questions using different wording to confirm accuracy/rule out trying to game the instrument, the axiological profile’s mathematical model is simply two pages. Each of the two pages contains 18 items to be force-ranked from best to worst and from agree with most to disagree with most.  Axiology simply tracks the thinking and valuing associated with those tasks.  The instrument cannot be tricked, takes only ten minutes to complete.

Application and Use

• The profile has been successfully used for over 60 years making it possible to identify the underlying talents and development needs of people and provide specific recommendations for hiring, coaching, training and succession planning.  In fact, Angel Investors and Investment Firms are using the axiological profiles to assess executive teams before investing in, or acquiring, companies.

• The types of profiles that can be cut from the two page instrument are numerous.  Those that I specialize in using are executive/entrepreneurial, leadership, management, personal/professional development, project management, hiring, sales and coaching.