Introduction to Catalog of Happiness in Nations
Abstract chapter 5
VALIDITY OF HAPPINESS AS INDICATOR OF LIVABILITY
This chapter considered whether average happiness in nations is a valid indicator of the
livability of these nations. Two kinds of validity tests were performed: First, global
tests for concurrent and congruent validity. Second, several specific checks of
some common objections against the use of happiness for this purpose.
The global tests for congruent validity showed that average happiness
in nations correspond with healthiness, though not with incidence of suicide. These two
alternative 'output' indicators of livability explain together 37% of the variance in
happiness. The test for concurrent validity showed a strong relationship with quality of
crucial living conditions in the country. Happiness is highest in the countries that
provide most material comfort, social equality, political freedom and access to knowledge.
Together these input indicators explain 77% of the variance in average happiness.
Various specific validity tests did not expose happiness either. The
observed differences in average happiness between nations do not seem to result from
cultural bias in its measurement. It is also unlikely that they result to a great extend
from cultural variation in outlook on life.
All in all, it is fairly probable that the differences in happiness, as
observed in survey studies, do reflect differences in livability of nations.