Historical events and societal changes significantly influence the evolution of human values over time. Here’s how:

-Technological development: The advanced technologies redefine the place of man and his interaction with the world he lives in. The industrial revolution made individuals shift from living a life with agrarian value to one characterized by efficiency, progress, and material possessions. Internet and social media ushered in a totally new set of values such as connectivity, free flow of information, and freedom of expression for personal identity.

-Social Movements: Civil Rights Movement, Women’s Suffrage Movement, and the LGBTQ+ rights movement challenge existing power structures and advocate for equality and justice. These movements, as a result, brought about changes in societal values about issues of race, gender, and sexuality.

-Global Conflicts: Wars and other major conflicts can have a very deep impact on human values. Traumatic experiences and loss of life make one appreciate peace, cooperation, and human life even more. However, wars and other forms of conflict also serve to entrench existing prejudices and divisions.

-Economic Changes: There has been much influence of individual and social values by the change in the economic system from feudalism to capitalism. For example, capitalism emphasized individualism, competition, and the pursuit of wealth.

-Environmental Changes: Climate change, natural disasters, and other environmental challenges are increasingly influencing our values. There is now a growing need for sustainability, environmental protection, and intergenerational responsibility.

Examples:

-The Black Death: The devastating plague of the 14th century had left the power of the Church to deteriorate and led to the transition of more worldly ideals to be followed.

-World Wars: The brutality in World War I and II prompted the need to focus more on peace, international harmony, and human rights.

-The internet. The internet allows for the fast spread of information that has been helpful in bringing people together, especially across geographical and cultural borders. This has fostered greater concerns for global citizenship, cultural exchange, and self-expression.