Abstract:As a major topic in the field of cross-cultural studies, the study of values in different countries has drawn great concerns from all parts of the world under the situation of globalization.

　　China and America are seated on lands far off with different historical backgrounds, and have shaped their own values. As two big countries in the world, America and China are the representatives of the western culture and the eastern culture respectively. And many scholars show great interest in researching the cultural differences between these two countries, for both have great impact on the world in many fields, such as economy, education, religion, etc. The purpose of the present study is to make a comparison of values (life values, society values, religion values, family values and marriage values) between America and China, beginning with the general description of the histories of both countries. 

　　The comparison of values in both countries is intended to arouse more attention from the authority and the public to cultural values so as to catch up and keep pace with the world. It is hoped that the problem under discuss can provide insights and guidance for those who are concerned, and can facilitate the cross-cultural communication as well.

Key Words: cross-cultural; values; historical background; eastern culture; western culture

中文摘要:作为跨文化研究领域的主要课题之一，有关不同国家的价值观研究在当前不可避免的全球一体化发展趋势下受到广泛的关注

　　中美两国各自植根于自己民族生活的土壤,拥有不同的历史文化背景,从而形成了不一样的价值观。作为世界上的两大国，美国和中国分别代表西方和东方的文化。因为它们对世界的经济、教育、宗教等有重大的影响，很多学者对研究两国的价值观产生浓厚的兴趣。本文以两个国家的历史概况作为切入点,对中国和美国的价值观作出比较(包括人生价值观、社会观、宗教观、家庭和婚姻观)。

　　从两国的价值观对比得出，为跟进社会的快速步伐，国家需在文化价值观上投入更多关注。论文旨在通过对比为他人提供感悟和指导，从而促进跨文化交流活动的成功

关键词: 跨文化；价值观；历史背景；西方文化；东方文化