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Document Type

Article

Abstract

Previous research has found that the most influential factors determining the happiness of nations are the Human Development Index (HDI) and the GINI index. Using data from The World Bank, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Human Development Reports, The World Database of Happiness, the Satisfaction with Life Scale, and the New Economic Foundation's The (Un) Happy Planet Index 2.0, this study tests three regression models to determine what factors are most influential in determining the happiness of nations, holding everything else constant. All three models suggest that plentiful precipitation contributes to happiness. Two models imply that low corruption, a high Human Development Index, and low unemployment also matter. One model finds a positive relationship between happiness and a more equal income distribution.

Publication Date

Spring 2012

Journal Title

Major Themes in Economics

Volume

14

Issue

1

First Page

33

Last Page

54

Copyright

©2012 by Major Themes in Economics

Language

en

File Format

application/pdf

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