GDP or GNH? The concept of Gross National Happiness
Bhutan is known for basing its policy decisions on happiness.
Gross National Happiness (GNH) was coined by the Fourth King of Bhutan in the 1970s as he questioned the prevailing use of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He believed that happiness is a better indicator and sign of progressive development for the Bhutanese people. In addition, Bhutan’s ancient legal code of 1629 stated that, “if the government cannot create happiness for its people, then there is no purpose for government to exist”. Now GNH is an index developed from 33 indicators categorised under nine domains seen as vital for happiness.
This idea has intrigued our co-founder Sabine since her travels through the small Himalayan kingdom many years ago.
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GDP or GNH? The concept of Gross National Happiness
Bhutan is known for basing its policy decisions on happiness.
Gross National Happiness (GNH) was coined by the Fourth King of Bhutan in the 1970s as he questioned the prevailing use of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He believed that happiness is a better indicator and sign of progressive development for the Bhutanese people. In addition, Bhutan’s ancient legal code of 1629 stated that, “if the government cannot create happiness for its people, then there is no purpose for government to exist”. Now GNH is an index developed from 33 indicators categorised under nine domains seen as vital for happiness.
This idea has intrigued our co-founder Sabine since her travels through the small Himalayan kingdom many years ago.
Interested in more stories like this? Sign up to our monthly newsletter.
GDP or GNH? The concept of Gross National Happiness
Bhutan is known for basing its policy decisions on happiness.
Gross National Happiness (GNH) was coined by the Fourth King of Bhutan in the 1970s as he questioned the prevailing use of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He believed that happiness is a better indicator and sign of progressive development for the Bhutanese people. In addition, Bhutan’s ancient legal code of 1629 stated that, “if the government cannot create happiness for its people, then there is no purpose for government to exist”. Now GNH is an index developed from 33 indicators categorised under nine domains seen as vital for happiness.
This idea has intrigued our co-founder Sabine since her travels through the small Himalayan kingdom many years ago.
Interested in more stories like this? Sign up to our monthly newsletter.
