SSC GD 2026 PYQ — Question 29

Correct Answer: Gallup World Poll

Explanation:

The World Happiness Index (published as part of the World Happiness Report) primarily uses data from the Gallup World Poll. The global happiness rankings are based on respondents' answers to the Cantril Self-Anchoring Striving Scale (often referred to as the 'Cantril ladder' question), where individuals evaluate their current life on a scale from 0 (worst possible life) to 10 (best possible life). This extensive polling data allows researchers to assess subjective well-being across more than 140 countries worldwide.

Key Points:

• The Gallup World Poll is conducted annually across more than 140 countries, capturing nationally representative samples to track global trends in human well-being.
• The happiness scores are further correlated with various key life factors, including real GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and perceptions of corruption.
• The World Happiness Report is produced in partnership with organizations such as the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.

Important Questions and Answers:

Question: What specific scale or question is used in the Gallup World Poll to measure national happiness?

Answer: The Cantril Self-Anchoring Striving Scale, which asks respondents to rate their current life on a scale from 0 to 10.

Question: Which academic institution publishes the World Happiness Report in partnership with Gallup and the UN?

Answer: The Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford.