Meaning: The quote by Mortimer Adler, a prominent American philosopher, captures the essence of how men (and people in general) tend to value things. According to Adler, there are three primary ways in which individuals evaluate and appreciate things: as useful, as pleasant or sources of pleasure, and as excellent or intrinsically admirable or honorable.

Firstly, the notion of valuing things as useful pertains to the practicality and functionality of items or concepts. Human beings have a natural tendency to assess the utility of things in their lives. This can range from everyday objects such as tools and appliances to more abstract ideas like knowledge and skills. The value of usefulness is often associated with efficiency and the ability to serve a purpose or fulfill a need. In modern society, the emphasis on utility is evident in the prioritization of practicality and functionality in products and systems. For example, when individuals purchase a new smartphone, they often assess its features and capabilities to ensure that it meets their practical needs such as communication, productivity, and entertainment.

Secondly, Adler suggests that people value things as pleasant or sources of pleasure. This aspect of evaluation is tied to the emotional and sensory experiences that objects or experiences evoke. Human beings are naturally inclined to seek out pleasure and comfort, and as a result, they tend to attribute value to things that bring them joy, satisfaction, or enjoyment. This can encompass a wide range of experiences, including entertainment, leisure activities, aesthetic beauty, and sensory indulgence. For instance, individuals may value a piece of art for its ability to evoke positive emotions, a scenic natural landscape for its beauty, or a delicious meal for the pleasure it provides the palate.

Lastly, Adler introduces the concept of valuing things as excellent, or as intrinsically admirable or honorable. This form of valuation pertains to the recognition and appreciation of qualities such as virtue, integrity, and excellence within objects, ideas, or individuals. When something is deemed excellent, it is regarded as possessing exceptional qualities that elevate it above the ordinary and make it worthy of admiration and respect. This can be seen in various aspects of life, including the recognition of outstanding achievements in sports, the arts, academia, and the acknowledgment of noble character traits such as honesty, courage, and compassion in individuals.

Adler's tripartite framework for valuing things provides a comprehensive understanding of the diverse ways in which individuals assign worth and significance to the world around them. By recognizing the multifaceted nature of human valuation, we gain insight into the complex interplay of practicality, pleasure, and excellence that underpin our perceptions and judgments. This framework also underscores the dynamic and subjective nature of value, as what is considered useful, pleasant, or excellent can vary greatly among individuals and across different cultural and historical contexts.

In conclusion, Mortimer Adler's quote sheds light on the fundamental ways in which people value things in their lives. Whether through the lens of utility, pleasure, or excellence, individuals engage in a continual process of evaluating and attributing worth to the myriad objects, experiences, and ideas that populate their world. This framework not only enriches our understanding of human behavior and decision-making but also invites reflection on the complex interplay of practical, emotional, and ethical considerations that shape our perceptions of value.