'Following the data' is a now-familiar phrase in Covid-19 policy communications. Well-being
data are pivotal in decisions that affect our life chances livelihoods and quality of life.
They are increasingly valuable to companies with their eyes on profit organisations looking to
make a social impact and governments focussed on societal problems. This book follows
well-being data back centuries showing they have long been used to track the health and wealth
of society. It questions assumptions that have underpinned over 200 years of social science
statistical and policy work. Understanding Well-being Data is a readable introductory book
with real-life examples. Understanding the contexts of data and decision-making are critical
for policy practice and research that aims to do good or at least avoid harm. Through its
comprehensive survey and critical lens this book provides tools to promote better
understanding of the power and potential of well-being datafor society and the limits of their
application.
