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Are societies becoming proself? A topographical difference under fast urbanization in China

Author

Listed:
  • Zhang Jingchao

    (University of Alberta
    Beijing Association of Sustainable Development)

  • Koji Kotani

    (Kochi University of Technology
    Kochi University of Technology
    Kyusyu University
    Rikkyo University)

  • Tatsuyoshi Saijo

    (Kochi University of Technology
    Kochi University of Technology
    Kyusyu University
    Research Institute for Humanity and Nature)

Abstract

Topographical variation is hypothesized to directly and indirectly influence social value orientations (SVOs) through the two channels of physical environment and urbanization. To examine the effects of topography on SVOs in urbanization, we conduct field surveys in mountainous, hilly and plains areas of Beijing, collecting sociodemographic information and SVOs. Our results demonstrate that higher proportions of proself people are found in plains and hilly areas than in mountainous areas, reflecting topographical differences in people’s SVOs. Overall, our results suggest that a new social mechanism is necessary to direct people’s social preferences toward prosociality when more people live in plains and hilly areas; otherwise, important social issues, such as air pollution, which require cooperation for solutions, might pose a danger in the future.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhang Jingchao & Koji Kotani & Tatsuyoshi Saijo, 2021. "Are societies becoming proself? A topographical difference under fast urbanization in China," Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, Springer, vol. 23(9), pages 12976-12993, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:endesu:v:23:y:2021:i:9:d:10.1007_s10668-020-01195-x
    DOI: 10.1007/s10668-020-01195-x
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    1. Shibly Shahrier & Koji Kotani & Yoshinori Nakagawa, 2021. "Cooperation on climate change and ongoing urbanization," Working Papers SDES-2021-8, Kochi University of Technology, School of Economics and Management, revised Sep 2021.

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