This book focuses on what makes people happy. The author explains methods for measuring
subjective life satisfaction and well-being by discussing economic and sociodemographic factors
as well as the psychological cultural and political dimensions of personal happiness. Does
higher income increase happiness? Are people in rich countries such as the United States the
United Kingdom and Scandinavian countries happier than those living elsewhere? Does losing
one's job make one unhappy? What is the role of genetic endowments inherited from our parents?
How important are physical and emotional health to subjective life satisfaction? Do older
people tend to be happier or younger people? Are close social relationships necessary for
happiness? Do political conditions such as respect for human rights democracy and autonomy
play a part? How can governments contribute to the population's happiness? This book answers
these questions on the basis of extensiveinterdisciplinary research reflecting the current
state of knowledge. The book will appeal to anyone interested in learning more about the
various dimensions of personal well-being beyond the happiness-prosperity connection as well
as to policymakers looking for guidance on how to improve happiness in societies.
