Last Revised 2025

Hartman Institute Policy Statement on the Application of the Hartman Value Profile

The Robert S. Hartman Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the axiological work of Robert S. Hartman. Established in 1976, the Institute supports research, communication, and education on Hartman’s contributions, including formal axiology and the Hartman Value Profile (HVP). The Hartman Institute publishes an annual journal, hosts an annual meeting for discussion and presentations, and is governed by an elected board.

Tool-Agnostic and Non-Certification Policy

The Hartman Institute serves as a forum for exploring Hartman’s philosophical work and the application of the HVP as an axiological tool to provide insights into human behavior. However, the Hartman Institute maintains a tool-agnostic and non-specific stance regarding the HVP. This means:

No Tool Endorsement or Policing:

  • The Hartman Institute does not endorse, regulate, or certify any specific version, type, or tool of the HVP.

  • The Hartman Institute does not comment on the validity, accuracy, or application of any particular HVP tool or interpretation.

Non-Certification of Competence:

  • The Hartman Institute does not certify the expertise or competence of individuals or groups using the HVP.

  • Membership in the Hartman Institute does not imply skill or proficiency in using the HVP and merely reflects a member’s adherence to the Institute’s organizational and membership guidelines.

Neutrality in Disputes and Complaints

  • The Hartman Institute does not address or mediate complaints about HVP practices, interpretations, or user conduct. Such matters are outside the Institute’s purview and remain the responsibility of individual practitioners or organizations.

Practical Application of Tool Agnosticism

To uphold its commitment to tool agnosticism:

  • The Hartman Institute fosters open, inclusive discussions on the HVP across different applications and versions without bias toward any specific tool or methodology.

  • Members are encouraged to share research, findings, and practices related to the HVP while recognizing that these represent personal insights and not endorsements by the Hartman Institute.

  • The Hartman Institute collaborates with the heirs of Robert S. Hartman to advance academic and practical studies of Hartman’s original work, ensuring a broad, impartial approach to its legacy.

The Hartman Institute remains steadfast in its mission to promote formal axiology while respecting diverse interpretations and applications of the HVP. This neutrality ensures a collaborative and open environment for advancing Hartman’s work without institutional bias or oversight.

For more information on our Membership Code of Ethics