Global happiness report (GHR)
United Nations (UN) Human Development Index 2023.
The primary data source for the World Happiness Report is usually the Gallup World Poll, which surveys people in over 150 countries about their subjective well-being. Respondents are asked to evaluate their current lives on a scale of 0 to 10, known as the Cantril ladder.
Key Variables and Their Data Sources
- GDP per capita: Data typically sourced from the World Bank or International Monetary Fund (IMF).
- Social Support: Measured by responses to the Gallup World Poll question about having someone to count on in times of trouble.
- Healthy Life Expectancy: Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) or similar health databases.
- Freedom to Make Life Choices: Based on responses to Gallup World Poll questions about perceived freedom in life decisions.
- Generosity: Measured by donations to charity, derived from Gallup World Poll data.
- Perceptions of Corruption: Based on Gallup World Poll questions regarding corruption in government and business.
Human Development Index (HDI)
- The HDI itself is composed of indicators such as life expectancy, education level, and per capita income, which align with many of the happiness factors.
- Although the HDI is not a direct input to the happiness rankings, its components are closely related to the variables used in the happiness analysis.
- Other surveys and studies that might contribute data include the World Values Survey, European Social Survey, and national statistical offices.
Conclusion
The report employs regression analysis to determine the relative contributions of each variable to the overall happiness scores. Changes and trends over time are analyzed to understand the dynamics of happiness and well-being globally. The World Happiness Report provides a comprehensive picture of global happiness, identifying key drivers and offering insights into how countries can improve the well-being of their citizens.
