Values and Human Wellbeing

Abstract

Substantial empirical and theoretical work demonstrates that to the extent individuals prioritise values and goals for wealth, status, and image, they report lower levels of personal wellbeing and engage in social and ecological behaviours that can reduce other people’s wellbeing. This essay reviews research and theory on how the prioritisation of money, image, and status is associated with wellbeing, describes a basic strategy for reducing the negative influences of these values, and sketches out ways that philanthropic and international development organisations might use this approach in their efforts.