Bhutan's Gross National Happiness (GNH) - A Holistic Approach to Measuring Well-being and Happiness

Bhut, also known as Gross National Happiness (GNH), is a concept developed by the King of Bhutan in the 1970s to measure the well-being and happiness of the Bhutanese people. It is an alternative to the traditional measure of gross domestic product (GDP) and focuses on the happiness and well-being of the population rather than just economic growth.

The GNH index includes factors such as psychological well-being, physical health, education, time use, and social relationships, and is calculated by surveying a representative sample of the population. The goal of GNH is to create a society that is not just economically prosperous but also happy and fulfilled.

Bhutan has been using the GNH index since the 1970s and has made significant progress in improving the well-being of its citizens. The country has implemented policies such as free education, free healthcare, and a minimum wage law to support the well-being of its citizens. Additionally, Bhutan has prioritized environmental conservation and sustainable development, which are also key components of the GNH philosophy.

Overall, the concept of GNH and the Bhutanese approach to measuring happiness and well-being offer an alternative perspective on development and prosperity that prioritizes the well-being of people and the environment over economic growth.