Friday, March 03, 2006

A Happy Conservative

from Ben's mom

Apparently a recent research project by Pew Research Group found that 47% of those that call themselves "conservative Republicans" define themselves as "very happy" compared to 28% of those that call themselves "liberal Democrats." And the results have been similar every year since 1972. (Even when Clinton was in office!!)

George F. Will write a very good op-ed piece that attributes much of the difference to the philosophical underpinnings. Conservatives don't expect government to better their lives; and liberals are forever thinking that if they could just get their program through, their lives would be better.

I wonder how much values play into it. I think my values contribute to my happiness, particularly when I live by them. What do you think?

1 comment:

Janice Phillips said...

My circumstances could be completely horrible and because of my values and what I define as true happiness, I would rarely say "I am unhappy." To do so seesm intrinsically selfish and shows a lack of dependance on God, in whom my happiness lies. Further, I can be happy and joyful by choice, again driven and motivated by my values. So basically, I agree with you.