Values and their Effect on Pro-Environmental Behavior

Abstract

Environmental protection may be described as a social dilemma. That is, collectively, we are better off If the environment Is protected, but rational self-interest often dictates environmental exploitation. The role of personal values in influencing pro-environmental behavior Is gaining Increasing attention relative to other solutions, such as monetary incentives and punitive sanctions. Using Schwartzks measure of values, I examine the influence of values on environmental behavior. Based on Schwartz s theory, values found to have a positive influence on environmental behavior are self-transcenden Vopenness to change and universalisn/blospheric. Values found to have a negative influence Include self-enhancement conservation.