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NotMVH - Such an empathetic, yet honest question. I think that the important question is "value to whom?" Physically, we are equal. Religion tells us that souls are individual and equal, left to salvation or damnation. To our government, we are a Social Security number and tax deduction. Individually, we have all led lives with good intention and selfishness to different degrees.
Should we feel guilty to feel superior to others? Does our income, religion, morality, ancestory make us more or less a person? If the addict who robbed you finds redemption and gives themselves to only charitable deeds a year from now, do they become more worthwhile? Oppenheimer contributed greatly to mankind through his scientific research, but also sowed misery through use of his findings.
Ultimately, I think value cannot be measured in terms of others, you are comparing apples and oranges. You can only honestly measure the value you feel for yourself, based on yesterday and your hopes for tommorow. Anything else is ultimately irrelevant.
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Oft expectation fails...
and most oft there Where most it promises
- Shakespeare, W.
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