Generational Egoism: Concept and Measurement.

Abstract

Introduction: The conceptualisation and development of a measure of generational egoism are described. Generational egoism is defined as actions aimed at maximising benefits for one's own generation without giving due attention or concern to the negative consequences of those actions for future generations. This form of selfishness is characterised by a short-term (here and now) focus and a lack of concern for the long-term consequences of one's actions.

Methods: A study of the psychometric properties of the Generational Egoism Questionnaire was conducted, with an exploratory and a confirmatory factor analysis being carried out. The first set of data (N = 269; Mage = 24.90; SD = 6.70) was analysed by exploratory factor analysis, and the second set of data (N = 213; M = 24.70; SD = 6.15) was analysed by confirmatory factor analysis. In addition, an investigation was conducted into the potential correlations within the group of participants (N = 161; M = 23.91, SD = 8.36) between the General Egoism Questionnaire, which has been introduced in this paper, and other personality and well-being diagnostic tools: The Dark Triad Dirty Dozen, The TIPI Test, The Satisfaction with Life Scale, The Positivity Scale, Brief Resilience Coping Scale and The Meaning of Life Questionnaire.

Results: The results of the factor analyses verified the one-factor structure of the Generational Egoism Questionnaire. The Generational Egoism Questionnaire reveals satisfactory internal consistency, with r = 0.88. The divergent and convergent validity of the Generational Egoism Questionnaire was indicated by correlations with other scales. The Generational Egoism Questionnaire correlates with personality subscales: narcissism, psychopathy, machiavelism, neurtocism and open to experience. The General Egoism does not correlate well-being.

Conclusion: The results indicate that the Generational Egoism Questionnaire is a valid and reliable instrument. The Genrational Egoism Questionnaire can be used in future research but also has its practical use - for teachers and environmental educators.