Which of the following is not one of the domains measured by the Happiness Index?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer
Internet speed
Explanation
The Happiness Index, particularly modeled after the Gross National Happiness (GNH) index framework pioneered by Bhutan and reflected in global metrics like the World Happiness Report, evaluates holistic societal well-being based on several key pillars and domains. Internet speed is purely a technological infrastructure parameter and is not classified as one of the fundamental domains used to calculate collective well-being or happiness.
The standard domains comprehensively evaluate institutional, human, and ecological parameters. Health measures physical and mental medical parameters, healthcare access, and longevity. Environment assesses ecological diversity, conservation efforts, and the community's relationship with nature. Psychological well-being evaluates deep internal elements like life satisfaction, optimism, emotional balance, and spiritual health.
Key Points
The framework typically relies on 9 comprehensive domains: Psychological Well-being, Health, Time Use, Education, Cultural Diversity and Resilience, Good Governance, Community Vitality, Ecological Diversity and Resilience, and Living Standards.
Technological advancements like telecommunications and internet connectivity are considered basic utility indicators or components under general living standards but are never treated as separate domains.
The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network publishes the annual World Happiness Report, which uses six primary variables to explain geographical life satisfaction variations: GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and freedom from corruption.
Important Questions and Answers
Question: Which South Asian country officially created the "Gross National Happiness" index philosophy to guide its national planning instead of traditional economic metrics?
Answer: Bhutan is the nation that introduced the concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) in 1972.
Question: Which network publishes the annual World Happiness Report to assess global happiness trends?
Answer: The Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), a global initiative for the United Nations, publishes the report.