Pursuing happiness in hard times (original)
Carl Etnier, Pacifica Radio Network
Is there something in new research that gives clues as to how we can maintain happiness at a time of industrial contraction?
There's good information out there on how to contract sustainably--some of it surprising. Everyone who's looked at the topic finds compelling reasons to use indicators other than GNP, Gross National Product, to guide policy.
Living with moderation, living with less, and living simply. Are the promoters of Gross National Happiness trying to re-invent the wheel? Are the sources for their ethical insights from non-Western traditions? While not all Christians in the past lived with wealth, one must keep in mind that the vast majority were poor but content, and if we look at the consumption of energy and resources, the average citizen of a First World Country has more than medieval kings.
The problem with the Western tradition is that it is Christian. While it is laudable to live sustainabily (and it is a matter of general justice, since one should take care of the environment not only for one's self but for future generations), how many of those who support causes like Gross National Happiness have difficulties living well with others, because they subscribe to "progressive" values with regards to sex, marriage and family? Divorce, a failure to parent well, and so on...
Related:
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AlterNet article; TIME; Utne Reader
Youtube: Gross National Happiness - Bhutan
Arthur Brooks
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