Objectivism and subjectivism: cross-national variation in values and domain-life satisfaction relationships

Fonberg, Jonathan 2017. Objectivism and subjectivism: cross-national variation in values and domain-life satisfaction relationships. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

There have been many attempts to ascertain the predictors of wellbeing. The goal of this thesis is not to evaluate individual theories but to challenge the assumptions that underlie them. Specifically, this thesis endeavours to determine whether there is evidence of universality in the predictors of wellbeing through an investigation of subjectivism and objectivism. In the former, pro-attitudes and values are thought to determine the predictors of wellbeing; in the latter, 'goods' with inherent value are proposed to do so universally. Global life satisfaction and life domain satisfaction were selected to operationalize subjectivism and objectivism, respectively. Cross-national comparisons were selected under the presumption that cultural values are internalized at the individual level. This assumption was validated through analysis of the World Values Survey, which revealed significant cross-cluster and cross-national variation in self-reported domain importance scores (family, friends, leisure time, politics, work and religion). Empirical analysis of both independently collected data and the Eurobarometer revealed similar cross-cluster and cross-national differences in domain-life satisfaction relationships (health, family, social life, personal safety, financial situation, home life and job). It was concluded these findings supported subjectivism: the predictors of wellbeing are not universal, but vary as a function of values.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Psychology
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	14 July 2017
Last Modified:	20 Apr 2021 13:43
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/102407

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