Is Neoliberalism Killing Us? A Cross Sectional Study of the Impact of Neoliberal Beliefs on Health and Social Wellbeing in the Midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Neoliberal ideology is linked to poorer collective health and well-being. At the individual level, however, neoliberal beliefs may actually promote self-efficacy, self-esteem, and self-reliance. We examined the effects of three beliefs underlying neoliberalism—(a) Personal Wherewithal, (b) Natural Competition, and (c) Anti-Government Interference—to understand the unique pathways by which neoliberalism affects health and well-being at the individual level. Participants were recruited using paid advertisements on social media in May/June 2020. Multivariable regression identified associations between each of the three identified neoliberal beliefs and participants’ (a) self-rated physical health, (b) number of health diagnoses, (c) life satisfaction, (d) loneliness, and (e) social trust of family, close friends/partners, coworkers, neighbors, and strangers. Among 2632 respondents, personal wherewithal was associated with better health, life satisfaction, and social well-being (perhaps by promoting self-efficacy and self-reliance to undertake healthy behaviors), while anti-government beliefs were associated with worse life satisfaction and social well-being (perhaps by reducing benefits inherent in collective action and social connection). Those hoping to reduce the negative effects of neoliberalism on collective well-being must contend with the reinforcing effect that personal wherewithal might have in shaping the perceived benefits of neoliberalism among those with these beliefs.