Free online Schwartz values test
Thirty short descriptions of different people. Rate how much each one is like you, and you'll see a circle of ten basic values: what comes first for you, what is furthest from you and where your main inner tensions lie.
The test is inspired by the theory of basic values developed by the social psychologist Shalom Schwartz. Your answers stay on your device: everything is calculated right in your browser, and your answers aren't sent to a server.
The result isn't a judgement or a diagnosis — it's a starting point for a conversation about yourself. You can continue it with Olia, the assistant who guides you through a values exploration.
Schwartz's ten values
Schwartz described ten values found in different cultures all over the world. They are arranged in a circle: neighbouring values sit well together, while opposite ones pull in different directions — for example, the lure of the new and the wish to keep things as they are.
Self-Direction
freedom to think, choose and create on your own terms
Self-Direction is the need to think for yourself, choose your own path and create something of your own. People who rank it near the top feel hemmed in by rigid constraints and other people's instructions: it matters to them to understand why they are doing something and to put their own stamp on it.
Stimulation
novelty, excitement and change
Stimulation is the pull towards novelty, excitement and change. When it is important to someone, they look for new places, pursuits and challenges, are quick to get enthusiastic and soon tire of routine. A calm, predictable life feels bland to them.
Hedonism
pleasure and joy in life
Hedonism is the value of pleasure and enjoyment here and now. For those who hold it dear, life is not only about tasks and duty: good food, relaxation, beautiful things and pleasant company matter as much as work.
Achievement
success and recognition for your skills
Achievement is the drive for success that others can see and recognise. People who rank this value near the top set high goals, compare themselves with the best in their field and appreciate it when their skills are noticed.
Power
status, influence and resources
Power is the value of status, influence and resources. Those for whom it matters want to stay in control of the situation, make decisions and hold a position that carries weight. For them, money and authority are a way to influence what happens.
Security
stability, order and safety
Security is the need for stability and safety — for yourself, your loved ones and society. When it ranks near the top, a person thinks ahead, values reliability and order, avoids unnecessary risk and builds a safety net.
Conformity
restraint and following the rules
Conformity is restraint and following the rules accepted by those around you. People with this value try not to upset others, keep their word and stick to agreements and norms, even when they would rather do otherwise.
Tradition
respect for customs, faith and roots
Tradition is respect for the customs, faith and roots of your family and culture. Those who hold it dear find their footing in what has been tried and tested over generations: festivals, rituals, modesty and the ability to accept life as it is.
Benevolence
care for loved ones and loyalty to them
Benevolence is care for the people close to you: family, friends, colleagues. People who rank this value near the top are reliable and ready to help or compromise for the sake of a relationship; loyalty and trust matter more to them than personal gain.
Universalism
fairness for all and care for the world
Universalism is concern for all people and for nature, not just for your own circle. Those for whom it matters value fairness, equality, tolerance of other views and treating the world with care.
Questions about the test
How long does the test take?
About five minutes: 30 statements, one answer to each on a six-point scale. While the tab is open, your answers are kept in it, so an accidental reload won't wipe your progress.
Is this a scientific test?
It is based on Shalom Schwartz's theory of basic values, a widely studied model of values in psychology. We wrote the statements ourselves, drawing on this theory: this isn't the official PVQ questionnaire or a clinical method, but a tool for self-discovery.
Are my answers saved?
No. The calculation happens in your browser; your answers aren't sent to a server and don't end up in analytics. They are kept only in this tab — so they aren't lost if the page reloads by accident.
Why is the result a ranking of values rather than scores?
According to Schwartz, what matters is not the ratings themselves but which values outweigh others. That's why the test takes your answering style into account: if you give high ratings to every statement, the circle will still show what matters more to you.
What should I do with the result?
Look at your top values and main tensions, and notice where your decisions, time and money match what matters to you and where they don't. You can explore this in depth with Olia — she guides you through a values exploration in conversation and puts together a personal values map.
A self-discovery test loosely based on Shalom Schwartz's theory of basic values. Not a clinical or official assessment.