Ruut Veenhoven
Chapter 1 in: Saris, W.E., Veenhoven, R., Scherpenzeel, A.C. & Bunting B. (eds) 'A
comparative study of satisfaction with life in Europe. Eötvös University Press, 1996,
ISBN963 463 081 2, pp. 243-253
ABSTRACT
Surveys in 10 European nations assessed satisfaction with life-as-a-whole and satisfaction
with three life-domains (finances, housing, social contacts). Average satisfaction differs
markedly across countries. Both satisfaction with life-as-a-whole and satisfaction with
life-domains are highest in North-Western Europe, medium in Southern Europe and lowest in
the East-European nations. Cultural measurement bias is unlikely to be involved. The
country differences in average 'subjective' satisfaction of citizens correspond with
'objective' differences in societal quality.