Abstract: Based on the seventh wave of World Values Chinese mainland (2018) data, this study explores the influence of post-materialist values, and its working mechanism, on national identity. The study found that: 1) the post-materialist values have a significant reverse effect on national identity; 2) the reverse effect of post-materialist values on national identity is realized through the intermediary effect of democratic satisfaction; and 3) under the current “critical citizen” thinking, the post-materialist values and democratic satisfaction show a reverse relationship, and under the influence of democratic satisfaction, the public put forward higher requirements on national governance. Therefore, in this context, while China's economy and society continues to develop, it is necessary to promote the modernization of the national governance system, enhance governance capacity, and control the national identity of the public within a reasonable range.

Key words: post-materialist values, satisfaction with democracy, national identity, national governance