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Happiness and Development — Public Policy Initiatives in the Kingdom of Bhutan

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Happiness and Public Policy

Abstract

The primary focus of national planning in a country surrounds the fulfillment of bigger or smaller needs for its citizens. Ideally, the policies undertaken will improve the well-being of the people. The primary focus, if shifted to economic development, can lead to a situation where the well-being of people takes a backseat while capital investment and infrastructural development merely spearhead economic growth with little concern for welfare.

If we do not learn from history, we shall be compelled to relive it. True. But if we do not change the future, we shall be compelled to endure it. And that could be worse.

Toffler 1972

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Authors
  1. Vijay Kumar Shrotryia
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Nanyang University, Singapore

    Yew-Kwang Ng

  2. Centre for Public Policy Studies, Lingnan University, Hong Kong

    Lok Sang Ho (Professor of Economics and Director) (Professor of Economics and Director)

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© 2006 Vijay Kumar Shrotryia

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Shrotryia, V.K. (2006). Happiness and Development — Public Policy Initiatives in the Kingdom of Bhutan. In: Ng, YK., Ho, L.S. (eds) Happiness and Public Policy. Palgrave Macmillan, London. https://doi.org/10.1057/9780230288027_9

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