Spiritual and cultural values as a determining factor of human life activity

Abstract

The article is devoted to the scientific substantiation of the role of spiritual and cultural values as a fundamental factor in an individual's life. In the context of contemporary social transformations, particularly the moral crisis, information overload, and the devaluation of humanistic ideals the author emphasizes the urgent need to update educational priorities. Special attention is given to the analysis of scientific approaches to defining the essence of spirituality, culture, and values in the works of leading foreign and Ukrainian scholars. The article explores the mechanisms of forming an individual's spiritual and cultural identity through the lens of self-education, moral choice, emotional maturity, and cultural interaction. The significance of universal values such as Love, Justice, Goodness, and Beauty is substantiated, as they contribute to the development of an individual’s inner world, spiritual resilience, humanistic worldview, and sense of social responsibility. It is noted that the integration of spiritual and cultural values into the educational process is possible only through a holistic approach, which encompasses emotional and semantic dimensions, the role of the educator, personal reflection, and dialogical interaction. The study proposes a culture-centric model of education that actively incorporates art, national traditions, and moral-ethical practices to foster the formation of a harmonious and socially mature personality. The article outlines prospects for the development of spiritual and cultural education as a foundation for strengthening social unity, humanity, and the internal potential of society.