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Abstract: The current paper presents results based on European Social Survey Round 2 data (2002-2004). The sample consisted of respondents from 24 countries; N = 45 681 (aged 15 - 100; M = 45.25). Several scales were used to meet the aim of the study: Schwartz's Portrait Value Questionnaire (PVQ), Social Trust Scale (STS), Trust in Institutions Scale (TIS), Political Participation Scale (PPS), Satisfaction with Life in General Scale. Participants were divided into 4 quadrants according to their PVQ scores on the dimensions openness to change vs. conservation and self-enhancement vs. self-transcendence. Results indicate that participants with self-transcendence orientation scored significantly higher in the Social Trust Scale (perceived honesty, objectivity, consistency, competence, and fairness in relationships between individuals), Trust in Social Institutions Scale (from national to international institutions), and also in the Political Participation Scale. These participants also perceived their lives as more satisfactory.
Key words: European Social Survey, values orientations
The central aim of the European Social Survey (ESS), as defined in the basic documents of the pro ect, is "to gather data about changing values, attitudes, attributes and behavioral patterns within European polities" (ESS, 2006).
The ESS is "an academicallydriven" social survey designed to monitor and explain the interaction between Europe's changing institutions and the attitudes, beliefs and behavior patterns of its diverse populations. It is designed to measure and explain how people's social values, cultural norms and behavior are distributed, the way in which they differ within and between nations, and the direction and speed at which they are changing.
But an equally important shorterterm aim is to develop and demonstrate an approach to the conduct of rigorous quantitative multinational social surveys in Europe which matches that of the best national surveys in Europe and the USA. The data and other outputs of the ESS are freely available to the social and policy communities throughout Europe and beyond. As the ESS biennial time series builds survey upon survey, it provides a unique longterm account of change and development in the social fabric of modern Europe. In addition, it helps to activate research networks across Europe and to promote the participation of young researchers in the substance and methodology of rigorous comparative research.
The ESS multidisciplinary team consists of researchers from...