This unit explores the origin, development and current application of the concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) in Bhutan. GNH is located within the history of development theory and practice, especially in terms of the search for alternative to mainstream theories and approaches to development. GNH is also examined in relation to the growing body of work on satisfaction and happiness including the history of happiness, its measurement and its causes. Using GNH and happiness more generally, this unit aims to improve critical thinking, increase student curiosity and heighten capacities in reflective practice and foresight.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. Compare and contrast GNH with mainstream economic development discourses;
2. Analyse how GNH is perceived and implemented in Bhutan and how that differs with the philosophy and practice of development in other countries;
3. Critically reflect on GNH theory and practice and the growing understanding of the concept; and
4. Critically examine the concept of happiness, its historical evolution, its measurement and its causes.

Graduate attributes

2. UC graduates are global citizens - behave ethically and sustainably in their professional and personal lives
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - adapt to complexity, ambiguity and change by being flexible and keen to engage with new ideas
1. UC graduates are professional - use creativity, critical thinking, analysis and research skills to solve theoretical and real-world problems
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - adapt to complexity, ambiguity and change by being flexible and keen to engage with new ideas

Prerequisites

None.

Corequisites

None.

Incompatible units

8933 Gross National Happiness G

Equivalent units

None.

Assumed knowledge

None.