Many people believe that society is experiencing a decline in moral values, citing various troubling behaviours. Despite these sentiments, recent studies reveal a more optimistic picture of public morality. Research indicates that, contrary to popular belief, there are significant reasons to remain hopeful about human behaviour and values.
A study published in June 2023 highlighted that individuals across over 60 countries feel that basic decency is deteriorating. In the United States, a poll conducted in 2025 found that nearly 46% of respondents believed rudeness was increasing, with only 9% noting a decrease since the pandemic began. Such findings contribute to a pervasive sense of pessimism regarding social interactions and community spirit.
However, research conducted by Paul Hanel, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Essex, sheds light on the discrepancies between perception and reality. Hanel’s investigations focus on the accuracy of public perceptions regarding moral behaviour. It appears that while many people perceive a decline, the underlying values that guide behaviour show notable consistency and positivity.
Values Reflect a Positive Outlook
A comprehensive study encompassing 32,000 individuals from 49 cultural groups in 2022 found that values such as loyalty, honesty, and helpfulness ranked highly, whereas power and wealth received lower rankings. This suggests that the claims of moral decline may not hold water when examined more closely. An interactive tool created by social scientist Maksim Rudnev using data from the European Social Survey demonstrated that these positive values have remained stable across more than 30 European countries from 2002 to 2023.
Further analysis indicates that people’s values are remarkably similar across various demographics, including education levels, religious affiliations, and political affiliations. For instance, values among 2,500 Democrats and Republicans in the United States from 2021 to 2023 revealed striking similarities. This challenges the narrative of a deeply divided society, suggesting a shared foundation of values.
While these findings are insightful, they rely primarily on self-reported data, which can occasionally be skewed by individuals’ desires to present themselves positively.
Uplifting Evidence of Positive Behaviour
When examining actual behaviours, the evidence continues to support a more optimistic view of human nature. Research conducted in 2020 found that in approximately 90% of public conflicts captured on CCTV, bystanders intervened to help. This trend was consistent across diverse locations, including the Netherlands, South Africa, and the UK. These incidents highlight a willingness to assist others even in dangerous situations, indicating a moral backbone among the public.
In less extreme circumstances, data from a 2019 study across 38 out of 40 countries revealed that lost wallets were more frequently returned when they contained cash. This behaviour likely stems from finders recognising the potential harm a loss would cause the owner.
Additionally, a 2023 experiment involving 200 participants from seven countries demonstrated that when given USD 10,000 (about GBP 7,500), individuals spent over USD 4,700 on others and contributed approximately USD 1,700 to charity. Such findings portray a society that values altruism and community support.
Discussions regarding historical behavioural changes reveal that while it may be tempting to romanticise the past, evidence suggests that Americans have become slightly more cooperative in their interactions with strangers from the 1950s to the 2010s.
Understanding the Roots of Misperception
Given the weight of the evidence supporting positive behaviours, it raises the question of why many still perceive a decline in morality. One significant factor is the media’s focus on negative events, which can distort public perceptions. Studies show that negative news is more likely to be shared on social media, amplifying distressing narratives.
For instance, coverage of disasters often emphasizes panic and cruelty, despite the reality that communities typically come together during crises. Furthermore, individuals with extreme political views are more active on social media, creating a skewed representation of societal behaviour.
While acknowledging that a minority of individuals can indeed cause harm, it is essential to recognize that these trends do not accurately reflect the average person’s behaviour or values. Overly pessimistic views can lead to decreased civic engagement. Research has shown that when individuals believe others are primarily self-interested, they are less likely to volunteer or participate in community initiatives.
Encouragingly, fostering connections with others can change perceptions. Engaging in conversations, whether with friends or acquaintances, often reveals a shared sense of kindness and community. Volunteering or participating in local events can also instil a sense of purpose and positivity.
Ultimately, while some negative behaviours may be rising, the evidence suggests that a moral decline is not occurring. Society has the potential to influence its trajectory positively. Awareness and engagement can build trust and hope for a better future, allowing communities to thrive through compassion and cooperation.
