To understand this, we need to make a distinction between what is good for the individual and what is good for the society as a whole, between the psychology of personal autonomy and the ecology of personal autonomy. In a study focused on twenty developed Western nations and Japan, Richard Eckersley notes that the factors that seem best correlated with national differences in youth suicide rates involve cultural attitudes toward personal freedom and control. Those nations whose citizens value personal freedom and control the most tend to have the highest suicide rates.
To grasp the complexities surrounding personal autonomy, we must differentiate between individual well-being and the greater societal health. This distinction is crucial in understanding the broader implications of personal freedom. In his research on developed Western nations and Japan, Richard Eckersley found that the cultural emphasis on personal freedom correlates significantly with youth suicide rates. This suggests that societal perceptions of autonomy play a vital role in shaping mental health outcomes.
Interestingly, countries that prioritize personal freedom and control often experience higher rates of youth suicides. This paradox indicates that while personal autonomy is valued, it may not always translate to emotional well-being. Barry Schwartz, in "The Paradox of Choice," sheds light on how the abundance of choice, while appealing, can sometimes overwhelm individuals, leading to negative outcomes in terms of mental health and societal cohesion.
