VALUES AND ENVIRONMENTALISM

Abstract

The aim of this study is to describe the links between the system of values and environmental orientations in the Estonian context. The sample consisted of 440 residents of Hiiumaa Island (representative random sample of the adult population). Value orientations were measured using the abridged version of the Schwartz value scale; composite indexes of ecological activity and various aspects of environmental awareness were constructed. The hypothesis concerning the sinusoidal pattern of relations between value types and environmental orientations was partly confirmed. Significant links were found between value dimensions and environmental attitudes. Associations of environmental attitudes and beliefs with value types confirm the assumption that individualistic (self-enhancement, autonomy) versus non-individualistic values (self-transcendence, contact with others, interdependence) form a major dimension that organizes various forms of environmentalism.