Introduction to Happiness in Nations
Abstract chapter 2
CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING SOCIETIES: LIVABILITY
Some common criteria for the evaluation of human societies are: 1) their stability over
time, 2) their productivity in goods and services, 3) the degree to which they realize
particular ideals, and 4) their livability. This book focuses on the latter criterion.
Livability is defined as the degree to which the provisions and requirements of a society
fit with its members needs and capacities.