Study shows how a country's wealth affects feelings of happiness

A sense of control over one's own life - autonomy - plays a key role in the level of happiness of people around the world. However, the strength of this link depends on a country's economic development and cultural values.

This is the conclusion reached by researchers from Aalto University in Finland. The work is published in the journal Social Indicators Research.

Scientists have long recognised that autonomy - the ability to make one's own decisions and influence one's own life - is important for human well-being. But there has been controversy over whether this need is universal or whether it is particularly important only in wealthy and individualistic societies. A new study shows that both sides are right.

Analysing data from nearly 100,000 people from 66 countries collected as part of the World Values Survey from 2017 to 2023, it found that autonomy is linked to levels of happiness and life satisfaction in all cultures. However, in wealthier and more individualistic countries, the link is much more pronounced.

The researchers used respondents' answers to questions about happiness and life satisfaction as a measure of well-being. Autonomy was measured by the extent to which people feel they have freedom of choice and control over how their lives unfold. Economic development of countries was measured by GDP per capita, taking into account purchasing power parity.

To assess cultural differences, the team applied the Global Collectivism Index, a relatively new index based on observable behavioural factors such as living together or using shared transport. According to the authors, the index can more accurately separate collectivist and individualist societies than previously used methods.

The results showed that in poor countries, higher living standards and more equitable income distribution have a more pronounced effect on people's well-being than increased autonomy. However, as economic development progresses, the role of personal freedom and control over life becomes more important.

The authors emphasise that autonomy is not just about political rights or the absence of state pressure. It also depends on working conditions, social institutions and the extent to which people can make decisions in everyday life.

According to the researchers, the findings can help the authorities to more precisely design policies to improve well-being, taking into account both the level of economic development and the cultural characteristics of the society.