Lower Perceived Economic Mobility Inhibits Pro-Environmental Engagement by Increasing Cynicism

People’s environmental protection behavior largely depends on their perception of the economic and social environment. Through six studies, this article investigates the relationship between perceived economic mobility and pro-environmental engagement. Using the World Values Survey, Study 1 (N = 59,948) found that lower mobility is linked to lower pro-environmental intentions. Studies 2 (N = 243) and 3 (N = 235) manipulated mobility in real and virtual society, supporting Study 1’s findings. Study 4 (N = 219) introduced cynicism, showing that lower mobility was associated with higher cynicism, which in turn was associated with lower pro-environmental behavior. Studies 5 (N = 234) and 6 (N = 294) manipulated mobility and measured cynicism as well as environmental donation, providing further evidence. Our findings expand research on perceived economic mobility, highlighting its broader impact on behavior that affects the natural environment.