Prosocial Spending and Well-Being: Cross-Cultural Evidence for a Psychological Universal

摘要: This research provides the first support for a possible psychological universal: Human beings around world derive emotional benefits from using their financial resources to help others (prosocial spending). In Study 1, survey data 136 countries were examined and showed that prosocial spending is associated with greater happiness world, in poor rich alike. To test causality, Studies 2a 2b, we used experimental methodology, demonstrating recalling past instance of has causal impact on across differ greatly terms wealth (Canada, Uganda, India). Finally, 3, participants Canada South Africa randomly assigned buy items charity reported higher levels positive affect than same themselves, even when this did not provide an opportunity build or strengthen social ties. Our findings suggest reward experienced helping may be deeply ingrained human nature, emerging diverse cultural economic contexts.