| ID | 137385 |
| Title Proper | Gross national happiness in Bhutan |
| Other Title Information | political institutions and implementation |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Givel, Michael S |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | This policy essay examines the historical and policy evolution in Bhutan from the creation of Bhutan in the 1600s to 2014. An examination of the overarching policy intent of Gross National Happiness is reviewed as well as how modern political institutions in Bhutan implement Gross National Happiness. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the new Bhutanese state founded by the Shabrung Ngawang Namgyal established its political and institutional right and legitimacy to rule based on Mahayana Buddhism canonical tenets, including ensuring that Bhutanese citizens could obtain Enlightenment and happiness. A modern manifestation of this historical precedent for state and political institutional intervention to promote collective happiness is embodied in the policy of Gross National Happiness. This essay concludes by noting that modern Gross National Happiness is a holistic development approach based on a trend emanating from more ancient Mahayana Buddhist traditions Gross National Happiness balanced with modern economic, governmental, and social conditions with Mahayana Buddhist spiritual requirements embodied in Gross National Happiness. |
| `In' analytical Note | Asian Affairs Vol. 46, No.1; Mar 2015: p.102-117 |
| Journal Source | Asian Affairs Vol: 46 No 1 |
| Key Words | Bhutan ; Social Condition ; Political Institutions ; Gross National Happiness ; Shabrung Ngawang Namgyal ; Mahayana Buddhist Traditions |