FVA (Facts → Values → Action) Logic

Goals

1. Describe FVA Logic
   
2. Excel at FVA Logic

What?

FVA Logic is a way of structuring reasoning so that decisions are clear and justified.
- Facts: Objective truths that can be verified against reality.
- Values: Judgments about what matters most, based on goals, ethics, or preferences.
- Action: The choice or behavior that follows logically from the facts and values.

In short: Facts inform Values, and together they guide Action.

Why Learn? (WIFM)

• Clarity: You see how decisions are built step by step rather than jumping to conclusions.
  
• Consistency: Your reasoning becomes less arbitrary, since actions are anchored in both reality (facts) and priorities (values).
  
• Easy Start: FVA logic is simple and intuitive, making it easier to learn and apply than formal logic, which can feel abstract and hard to map onto real-world decisions.
  
• Persuasion: When you explain your reasoning in FVA form, others can see that your action is well-grounded.
  
• Better Choices: By balancing facts with what truly matters, you avoid both cold rationalism (facts only) and reckless emotionalism (values only).

TVA Logic (How To)

1. Start with Facts (F): Clearly state the facts you are relying on. Check that they are accurate, reliable, and relevant.
   
2. Add Values (V): Describe what matters most in this situation (e.g., safety, fairness, efficiency). Be explicit.
   
3. Conclude with Action (A): Show the action that follows logically from your facts and values.

Think of it as a recipe: Facts → Values → Action.

Examples

Hybrid Car

• Issue: Should we purchase a hybrid or a gas car?
  
• Facts: Hybrids get better gas mileage. Hybrids have better resale value than gas cars. Gas cars have longer track records. Hybrid battery replacement is costly. Hybrids are quieter. We have ample money for a car purchase.
  
• Values: In priority order, we care about driving experience, cost, and social desirability.
  
• Action Claim: We should buy a hybrid because it best aligns with our values.

Politics

• Issue: What is the best stance on immigration in the US?
  
• Facts: The US economy relies on immigrant labor in many sectors. Immigration levels affect jobs, border security, and cultural diversity. Some immigrants enter legally, while others do not.
  
• Values: Our priorities are fairness, economic health, and national security.
  
• Action Claim: We should maintain strong border security while providing a legal path for immigrants who support the economy and follow the rules.