A review of the Materialist-Postmaterialist theories from a generational classification: do older people become conservative?

Abstract

An empirical analysis of the theories of Materialism-postmaterialism is carried out from the elaboration of an Index, with the 12 items collected in the literature and applied to a 4-generation structure, to observe the degree of Materialism or Post-materialism of society. A relative generational similarity is observed between economically and geographically different countries, which reinforces the generational thesis against classical theses such as socialization or scarcity. The standard of living, interest in politics and education are the relevant variables to explain Post-materialism. Generational values range from high Post-materialism among Millennials to Materialism of the Elderly. The results have various consequences for economics, sociology, and politics, especially in societies prone to aging.

Keywords:
Materialism; Post-materialism; Generations; Standard of living; Interest in Politics; Education