In 1776 the American Declaration of Independence argued for “certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness” (The American Declaration of Independence 1776). 

 

More than ever, the developed world is pursuing happiness, against the backdrop of extreme poverty and unhappiness in under-developed countries.

 

As the world economy enters into new and uncharted waters, the elusive concept of Wellbeing is rapidly becoming the new benchmark of a nation’s health.

 

Most people have episodes of happiness – such as holidays, promotions, relationships. With well-being we are looking for that subjective experience of satisfaction with one’s life, both in general and in specific areas of one’s life such as relationships, health and work. 

  

'Wellbeing is a positive and sustainable condition that allows individuals, groups or nations to thrive and flourish.  Wellbeing....requires an integrated approach, one that embraces mind, body, society, and the

environment.'    Felicity Huppert, Nick Baylis & Barry Keverne 2005

 

Jeremy Bentham (1789), the British philosopher, argued that the purpose of politics should be to bring the greatest happiness to the greatest number of people. 

 

81% of the UK population agreed that the Government’s primary objective should be the creation of happiness not wealth. (Survey by Easton, 2006)

 

David Cameron, HM Leader of the Opposition, put happiness firmly on the political agenda by arguing that “It’s time we admitted that there’s more to life than money, and it’s time we focused not just on GDP, but on GWB – general wellbeing" (BBC, 2006).