Survival probability was given a greater importance in low PDB environments than in high PDB environments (r = 0.740, p = 0.009). This is most likely because the probability is not influenced by class or status.

Low Power Distance Beliefs (PDB) Social Preferences in Allocation Decisions

Compared to low PDB environments, criminal record was considered more closely in high PDB cultures (r = 0.830, p = 0.002). This result is consistent with previous research where high PDB environments preferred a stable social structure, and those with a criminal record could disrupt the stability.

High Power Distance Beliefs (PDB) Social Preferences in Allocation Decisions

Low PDB countries have a less hierarchical society, not emphasizing class or power status to maintain equality among the people. High PDB environments prioritize social structure. 

University of Pittsburgh

The study looked more specifically at two factors that contribute to cross-country differences as they influence moral decisions and how the citizens of a country behave. The two main factors are:
- Cultural dimensions (Individualism vs. collectivism and power distance beliefs, PDB) 
- Economic development (GDP per capita)

Country Level Social Preferences

Jin, L., Huang, Y., Liang, Y., & Zhang, Q. (2020). Who Gets the Ventilator? Moral Decision Making Regarding Medical Resource Allocation in a Pandemic. Journal of the Association for Consumer Research. doi:10.1086/711734

Who Gets the Ventilator? Moral Decision Making Regarding Medical Resource Allocation in a Pandemic

People from individualist cultures typically have an analytic thinking style and prioritize individualism. People from collectivist cultures typically give elders the authoritative role, emphasizing respect for the older population. Furthermore, they view themselves as more interdependent and value group harmony.

Individualist vs. Collectivist Cultures

Low vs. High Power Distance Beliefs (PDB) Countries

A moderate correlation between economic development and importance of survival probability was found (r = 0.593, p = 0.055). A negative correlation between prosperity and importance of criminal records was calculated (r = -0.0580, p = 0.061). This was assumed to be because more prosperous countries can tolerate immoral behaviors better. 

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