Gallup Global Happiness

It turns out you can measure happiness, or at least Gallup is willing to try. Worldwide happiness varies substantially with a high of Finland at 7.7 out of 10, and Afghanistan at 1.7. Where you live matters.

“Among those born after 1980, happiness falls with each year of age. Among those born before 1965, life evaluations rise with age.” – Gallup

A look at the map shows that, while there are great variations, entire regions can be more homogeneous: Canada (6.9), USA (6.72), Mexico (6.69).

Unfortunately, it may be appropriate to add happiness inequality to wealth and income inequality.

Until the last few decades, such distinctions were harder to track. The good news is that we can track them, at least subjectively. The bad news is that many are in the midst of a lot of unhappiness.