Does Happiness Matter More Than Wealth?

[HuckleB]

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=36235


"Negative events that reduce well being actually increase GDP," says A.J. Senchack, holder of the Lucy King Brown Chair in International Business at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas.

Hurricane Katrina is a case in point. While this was a personal disaster for hundreds of thousands of citizens, recent figures for the country's GDP showed a robust growth of 4.1 percent due to the huge medical expenses and rebuilding costs associated with the hurricane. Many other transactions such as crime, divorce and environmental degradation have a similar impact on GDP.

Senchack says that GDP -- which has its roots in the 1930s -- was never intended to be a direct measure of economic health or well-being. "Our policymakers, economists and the media bestowed that role on it," he says.

..."

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=36235

[MrSlayer]

1. I've never had wealth but I'm sure I'd be happier if I did. n/t

[HuckleB]

2. did you read the article?

or just go for a snappy (out of context) response to the headline?

[MrSlayer]

3. Went for the snappy out of context.

Gimmie a break, at least I kicked it for you.

[Sgent]

4. I think this is basic psychology

once you have enough wealth to not worry about the food/shelter requirements of Maslov's Hierarchy, then happiness is more important than wealth. Note, depending on where you live this could be met with a fairly small income (20K/yr).

Until those needs are met, then wealth is more important.

[HuckleB]

5. If only basic psychology could explain the world so easily.

There are too many greys for such a simple answer, in my experience. The longer I live, the less Maslow convenient explanation fits the world.

[HuckleB]

6. Kick