Work

The Interplay of Happiness and Sustainability: A Multidimensional Scaling and K-Means Cluster Approach

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study examines the intricate relationship between national happiness and sustainability by analyzing data from the 2024 World Happiness Report (WHR) and the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Index across 74 countries. Employing multidimensional scaling (MDS) and K-means clustering, we investigate the interplay of economic, social, and environmental factors that contribute to subjective well-being. Our results indicate that high-income countries, particularly those characterized by secular–rational values, tend to achieve elevated scores in both happiness and sustainability. In contrast, lower-income nations exhibit diverse cultural value systems that significantly influence their happiness and sustainability outcomes. This analysis identifies distinct clusters of countries with unique governance and cultural profiles, underscoring the inadequacies of traditional economic indicators in measuring societal well-being. By integrating sustainability metrics into happiness assessments, we propose a comprehensive framework for understanding and promoting human happiness. These findings offer critical insights for policymakers aiming to address pressing global challenges, including inequality and health disparities.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su162210068

Authors: Emmanuel Detrinidad, Victor Raul Lopez Ruiz

Institution: University of Castilla-La Mancha

Language: English

Topic: Psychological Well-being and Life Satisfaction

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,728