Culture as a path to greater life satisfaction

2026-02-13

A study presented at the end of 2025 by researchers from Vilnius University’s Faculty of Philosophy and the Lithuanian Centre for Social Sciences shows that life satisfaction depends not only on income or social status, but also on engagement in cultural activities.

Even when factors such as age, gender, occupation, and family status are taken into account, participation in culture remains one of the strongest predictors of subjective well-being. Regular engagement in cultural activities (at least three times a year) increases life satisfaction to the same extent as approximately €4,000 more in annual take-home income.

Performing arts, exhibitions, museums, libraries, cultural publications, and cinema help us better understand ourselves, foster a sense of belonging, and reduce loneliness. This highlights the importance of accessible cultural services across Lithuania, not only in major cities.

📺 More about the study “Culture and Social Well-Being: The Social Impact of Culture and Creative Industries and Its Measurement” is discussed by LIAA Board member Dr Tadas Šarūnas on the programme “Good Morning, Lithuania”: https://www.lrt.lt/mediateka/irasas/2000617026/sociologas-sarunas-tyrimai-rodo-jog-kulturiniai-renginiai-didina-pasitenkinima-gyvenimu

📷 Justinas Auškelis