QUALITY OF LIFE IN RIO DE JANEIRO: A MULTICRITERIA ANALYSIS BASED ON MASLOW’S HIERARCHY OF NEEDS

ABSTRACT

This research evaluates the quality of life of the ninety-two cities in the state of Rio de Janeiro using a non-compensatory composite aggregator index. It was a multimethodological research, which combines a qualitative conceptual map with a quantitative multicriteria model to assess variables of difficult definition. The criteria are based on Maslow’s concepts, which also define the weights between them, bringing more coherence to the index. We conclude that our measurement model with non-compensatory rationality offers an alternative for calculating the quality of life. The cities of Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro and Volta Redonda scored best in our proposed index. Silva Jardim, Sumidouro and São Francisco de Itabapoana scored worst. Niteroi scored best in Physiological and Esteem needs. Nova Friburgo scored best in Safety needs. Mesquita scored best in Love and belonging needs. A sensitivity analysis shows that our method’s structure makes results distortion difficult.

Keywords:
quality of life; multicriteria decision aid; Promethee; Maslow’s pyramid; human development index