Cross-Cultural Differences in Happiness and Life Satisfaction: A Comparative Study Across Emerging and Developed Economies

Abstract

This study investigates cross-cultural differences in happiness and life satisfaction across emerging and developed economies, with the aim of understanding how economic and cultural contexts influence subjective well-being. Based on the results of the World Values Survey, the research design is quantitative and comparative as it aims to study the differences in well-being among many countries. To test the relationship between economic classification and subjective well-being, descriptive, comparative, and regression analysis are conducted and the demographic variables age, sex, income, and education are held constant. The results show that the people in developed economies record much higher happiness and life satisfaction than those in emerging economies. Nevertheless, the significant differences among the two groups underscore the fact that cultural factors are still relevant in determining the outcome of well-being. The findings also show that happiness and life satisfaction have a strong positive correlation which supports the multidimensional character of subjective well-being. Moreover, the income and education become important predictors of well-being and the impact of socio-economic conditions and cultural influences. The research adds to the knowledge on global human behaviour through combining cultural and economic lenses, and it has practical implications to policymakers who want to enhance well-being in various societal settings.