Left and Right in Global Politics

the latter more pessimistic about humanity but more satisfied with the
status quo. Table2.4 presents results in line with these predictions.
On a world scale, people on the right tend to be less trustful and to
believe that one needs to be very careful in dealing with people. They
are, however, more satisfied with their life and happier. There are, of
course, numerous determinants of happiness, including a person’s
economic and social situation and religious faith, and it is not our aim

Table 2.3.Relationships between left–right self-placement and qualities
respondents find important to encourage in children, on a world scale,
1999–2001

Independence
0.035
Hard work 0.027
Feeling of responsibility
0.024
Imagination
0.043
Tolerance and respect for other people
0.029
Thrift, saving money and things 0.026
Determination, perseverance
0.024
Religious faith 0.093
Unselfishness
0.016
Obedience 0.035

Note:All these correlations are significant at 0.001 level (***).
Source:World Values Survey.

Table 2.4.Relationships between left–right self-placement and

attitudes toward life, on a world scale, 1999–2001

Generally speaking, would you say that most people

can be trusted (1), or that you need to be very careful

in dealing with people (2)?

0.026***

All things considered, how satisfied are you with your

life as a whole these days? Choose a score between 1

(dissatisfied) and 10 (satisfied).

0.085***

Taking all things together, would you say you are

very happy (1), quite happy (2), not very happy (3), or

not at all happy (4)?

0.072***

Note:All these correlations are significant at 0.001 level (***).

Source:World Values Survey.

A worldwide value divide 45