The article acquaints readers with two methods of measuring value orientations developed by S. H. Schwartz. Particular attention is devoted to the Portrait Values Questionnaire, which was used in the European Social Survey in 2002. Using the data file from the survey, the author shows how four types of 'higher order' values are represented among the Czech population and how value priorities influence a person's position in the social structure. The article also presents an international comparison.