Indonesia Leads the Way in the First-Ever Global Flourishing Study
Many indexes strive to comprehend the mental state of humanity, assessing a wide range of factors including happiness, wellbeing, and life satisfaction. Among these gauges, a new benchmark has recently emerged.
About the Global Flourishing Study
The Global Flourishing Study is a pioneering initiative that aims to cover the gaps left by existing research. It delves into various aspects of people’s lives, from personal relationships to their sense of purpose and meaning. Harvard University in the United States surveyed over 200,000 individuals across 22 countries to create a comprehensive portrait of global human flourishing.
This ground-breaking research is grounded in the belief that flourishing is not merely about feeling good, but also about functioning well. Over a period of five years, the study will try to pinpoint the factors that promote or inhibit human flourishing.
Indonesia Sets the Benchmark
Indonesia currently leads the way, with the highest average score in this inaugural study. Mexico and the Philippines followed closely, while Japan, Turkey, and the United Kingdom had the lowest scores.
Quantifying wellbeing is a complex task, and while the Global Flourishing Study is not without its limitations, including its focus on a mere 22 countries, it nonetheless provides valuable insights. Harvard has made its 12-question survey available online for everyone, enabling individuals to conduct a self-assessment.
“Identifying and nurturing factors that enable individuals and communities to thrive can transform how societies deal with conflict, cooperation, and the collective pursuit of wellbeing,” said Dr. Tyler VanderWeele, the director of Harvard’s Human Flourishing Program.
Image: Tyler Morgan
