Digitalization and subjective wellbeing in Europe
Digital Policy, Regulation and Governance
; 24(1):52-73, 2022.
Article
in English
| ProQuest Central | ID: covidwho-1684967
ABSTRACT
PurposeThis study aims to analyze the effect of digitalization on 28 European countries’ subjective wellbeing by using macro (aggregate level) indicators.Design/methodology/approachThe research investigates the impact of digitalization (Digital Economy and Society Index [DESI]) on life satisfaction through its components. The study uses several models based on the two-stage least squares method.FindingsThe findings show that internet connectivity, use of the internet and integrated digital technology are positively related to life satisfaction. Furthermore, the results revealed that human capital and digital public services are negatively associated with it. The study also suggested that digital skills, e-health, and e-government services do not necessarily increase an individual’s life satisfaction level. The internet’s use appeared to be the most effective digitalization component in affecting life satisfaction in Europe.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is based on the DESI index from 2014 to 2019. Although it does not influence the outcome, future research may consider additional indexes such as Digital Adoption Index and Digital Transformation Index and extend the study period.Practical implicationsThe study helps the policymakers directing their attention to the importance of digitalization on life satisfaction.Originality/valueThis work extends the limited understanding of subjective wellbeing, digitalization and the digital economy and society index in terms of theoretical implications.
Communications; Internet adoption; Digital economy; Life satisfaction; Digitalization; DESI index; Subjective wellbeing; Indexes; Internet; Social networks; Human capital; Mental disorders; Least squares method; Research methodology; COVID-19; Electronic government; Research design; Cellular telephones; Technology adoption; Life expectancy; Internet access; Sustainable development; Variables; Impact analysis; Social welfare; Literature reviews; Mental health; Unemployment; Adoption of innovations; Coronaviruses; Digitization; Public services; Government services; Europe
Full text:
Available
Collection:
Databases of international organizations
Database:
ProQuest Central
Language:
English
Journal:
Digital Policy, Regulation and Governance
Year:
2022
Document Type:
Article
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