What is the meaning of life? Ask a conservative

A new USC Dornsife-led psychology study shows that conservatives, more so than liberals, report feeling that their lives are meaningful or have purpose.

What is the meaning of life? Ask a conservative
Meaning of life

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“Finding meaning in life is related to the sense or feeling that things are the way they should be, and that there is a sense of order,” said David Newman, a doctoral candidate at USC Dornsife’s Mind and Society Center. “If life feels chaotic, then that would likely dampen your sense that life is meaningful.”

  • Results were adjusted for religious beliefs.

“There is some unique aspect of political conservatism that provides people with meaning and purpose in life,” - according to the researchers.

  • It doesn't pay to make hasty decisions though, based on someone's political leaning.

“It doesn’t mean that every conservative finds a lot of meaning in their life and that every liberal is depressed,” Newman said.

Study: USC Dornsife