instrumental value

USAGE SUMMARY

"instrumental value" is a correct phrase in written English.
It is used in a philosophical and ethical context to refer to the use of something to attain an end goal or purpose. For example, "Although the object had aesthetic value, its instrumental value was more important in this situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The philosophical arguments about intrinsic value versus instrumental value can get quite complicated.

The New York Times - Science

Women's roles are apparently seen as of instrumental value, and civil rights perceived as a potential barrier to economic development.

The Guardian

When Frankfurt observes that truthfulness is crucial in maintaining the sense of trust on which social coöperation depends, he's appealing to truth's instrumental value.

The New Yorker

The instrumental value of the arts to wealth, to mental and physical health, to education, to social coherence, is real and enormously important.

The Guardian

It also affords the possibility that political participation can have an intrinsic value, in its own right, in addition to its instrumental value of securing the common good.

Encyclopedia Britannica

While it is impossible to ignore Spencer's instrumental value to Winsmith, the two likely found comfort in the shared experience of living away from loved ones.

The New York Times

Instrumental value is also sometimes contrasted with "constitutive" value.

SEP

Which means that care, strictly speaking, has no instrumental value.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

Do they possess inherent worth or only instrumental value?

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

But presence also can have instrumental value, where being there is valuable in an objective sense.

TechCrunch

In the literature on environmental ethics the distinction between instrumental value and intrinsic value (in the sense of "non-instrumental value") has been of considerable importance.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the benefits of something, clearly articulate how its "instrumental value" contributes to a specific end goal. Avoid vague claims and provide concrete examples.

Common error

Avoid using "instrumental value" when you actually mean intrinsic value. Intrinsic value is inherent, while "instrumental value" depends on external purpose. For example, stating 'art has instrumental value' is inaccurate if you mean its beauty is valuable in itself, rather than for a specific outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instrumental value" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It refers to the worth or importance of something based on its ability to achieve a particular goal or purpose. Ludwig provides various examples showcasing its usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

23%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "instrumental value" is a noun phrase that denotes the worth of something based on its usefulness as a means to achieve a particular end. It is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in academic, scientific, and philosophical contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and provides numerous examples illustrating its versatility. When writing about this topic, it is important to distinguish it from intrinsic value and clearly articulate how something's "instrumental value" contributes to a specific goal. The most frequent sources include Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, The New York Times, and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Practical worth

Focuses on the real-world application and utility of something.

Functional significance

Emphasizes the importance of something's function or role.

Utilitarian value

Highlights the usefulness of something in achieving a desired outcome.

Serviceability

Focuses on the ability of something to provide a service or fulfill a need.

Pragmatic value

Emphasizes the practical and realistic benefits of something.

Usefulness

A more general term referring to the quality of being useful for a purpose.

Applicability

Focuses on the relevance and suitability of something for a particular situation.

Effectiveness

Emphasizes the degree to which something is successful in producing a desired result.

Efficiency

Highlights the ability of something to achieve a desired outcome with minimal waste or effort.

Expediency

Emphasizes the convenience and practicality of something in achieving a goal.

FAQs

How is "instrumental value" different from intrinsic value?

"Instrumental value" is the value something has as a means to an end, while intrinsic value is the value something has in itself, regardless of its usefulness. For example, money has "instrumental value" because it can be used to buy goods, while happiness is often considered to have intrinsic value.

In what contexts is the term "instrumental value" typically used?

The term "instrumental value" is commonly used in philosophy, ethics, economics, and environmental studies to discuss the value of something based on its utility or usefulness in achieving a particular goal or outcome.

What are some synonyms for "instrumental value"?

Some synonyms for "instrumental value" include "practical worth", "utilitarian value", and "functional significance". These terms all emphasize the usefulness of something in achieving a desired end.

How can I use "instrumental value" in a sentence?

You can use "instrumental value" in a sentence like this: "The tool had little intrinsic appeal, but its "instrumental value" in completing the task was undeniable."