ABSTRACT
Introduction The study of values in political science and sociology has been driven by the hypothesis that value-orientations contribute to outcomes, either in politics or in society. Values figure prominently in elections as well as in the making of public policy. There can be little doubt that the left-right self-placement of an individual is relevant when understanding both politics and policy, but how about the new theories of personal happiness or life satisfaction? The hope for these is great, as scholars want to erect a new section in the social sciences, explaining happiness both micro and macro. But there are several difficulties, both conceptual and methodological, some of which we wish to point out here.
