Economic Beliefs and Human Values: Further Evidence of the Two-Value Model?

Abstract

Abstract This study investigated among Australian adults the thesis that beliefs can be distinguished in terms of a two-value model (Braithwaite, 1982; Rokeach, 1973). As predicted, adherents of left- and right-wing economic beliefs (N = 256) were distinguished by their support of different human values. Support was also found for the Braithwaite view that the value constructs international harmony and equality and national strength and order were the prime predictors of left- and right-wing economic beliefs, respectively. These results are discussed with reference to previous work in this area (e.g., Billig, 1984; Feather, 1984).