Subjective well-being (SWB), defined as individuals' self-reported assessment of their own life satisfaction and happiness, has become a focal point in contemporary social sciences. Understanding the factors that contribute to well-being is critical not only for academic research but also for policymakers seeking to enhance quality of life at the societal level. A growing body of literature highlights the importance of personal agency and autonomy—key components of human freedom—in influencing subjective well-being. Personal agency refers to the capacity of individuals to act independently and make their own free choices, while autonomy involves selfgovernance and freedom from external control.
This paper examines the relationship between personal agency, autonomy, and subjective well-being on both personal and national levels, with a specific focus on Hungary. Hungary provides a compelling case study due to its recent political shifts towards more authoritarian governance, increased state intervention, and rising concerns over declining personal freedoms. By exploring the dynamics between autonomy and well-being, this study seeks to contribute to the broader understanding of how individual liberties and state policies impact life satisfaction.
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