How Bhutan can Measure and Develop GNH

In: Proceedings of the First International Conference on Operationalization of Gross National Happiness. Thimphu, Centre for Bhutan Studies 2004, pp. 347-374 . ISBN 99936-14-22-X

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Abstract

From a psychological point of view the author describes a process to determine a quantifiable measure of Gross National Happiness for application in the modern Bhutanese context. He introduces to a model of the components of a national measure of happiness that results from a merging of Positive Psychology, Life Coaching theory, Life Skills training, and his own growing personal interest in Bhutan and Buddhist practices. It is a model of a theoretical pathway of how the policies and services of the government can contribute to the satisfaction and happiness of its citizens and hence endeavour to increase Gross National Happiness. He defines the components of the model, then describes the structure of the relationship between the components. This is followed by a discussion of the implications of the model for the individual and for the policy makers.