Unifying principles are beliefs that are common among all cultures, traditions and religions. They are primary and are reflected by values which are personal to groups and individuals. Therefore as values they can become warped and self-serving over time. For example, justice for all can become justice for me and my group. Principles need to be re-visited repeatedly to be understood, while values need to be re-directed based on principles that unify and do not divide us.

These shared principles have been referred to as God qualities, laws, and principles, and include balance, harmony, order, wholeness, equality, peace, justice, unity, and love, etc., the basis for the spiritual and secular laws of religions, cultures, and governments.