Exploring societal cultural values and human rights and development

Abstract

This study is an exploration of the relationships between societal cultural values and various observable societal practices. We drew on extant data sources and explored relationships between societal values and human development indexes of 52 cross-listed societies. Correlations were explored using secondary data from notable and valid sources. Data analysis includes Pearson correlation, stepwise regression analyses, and R2 analyses to explore possible operational models. Statistical analyses offer support for the development of two usable models to explain cultural value dimensions that act as independent variables. This exploratory study identifies relationships between societal values and civil liberties and corruption indexes. These findings add to the debate of which cultural values and traditions may support or hinder human rights and human capital development.