The 10 Happiest Countries in the World

Business Week looked at surveys done and studies done and compiled them to find the happiest countries. It was found that freedom of choice and tolerance was as important as having money. This is the 2008 World Values Survey

The data consisted of around 350,000 people in 97 countries. The data had been compiled since 1081. Denmark had the most contented citizens with Zimbabwe as the most miserable. In the past countries such as Sweden and Finland made the top 10 but Puerto Rico and Columbia got in their way. Believe it or not El Salvador came in at number 11. You must be wondering about the United States. I don't think I'm surprised by the fact that Malta and Luxembourg beat us. We came in number 16.

The World Values Survey has been gathering data for a long time. Two questions that have always been on the other studies and that were on this asked how people would rate their happiness and asked how satisfied they were with their life these days.

The results this year were shocking to those who administered the study. Reported happiness had actually risen in 40 countries and decreased in just 12. The researchers truly couldn't believe this and I'm sure wondered about their methods. It was explained by telling us that earlier studies were based on economic issues. Freedom of choice and social acceptance now determine a person/country's mood.

Expression of gratitude (a pat on the back from a boss; an "I love you from a significant other" - my thoughts) seem to bring happiness into people's lives. Religion and a feeling of belonging somewhere also play a large part.

I'm going to list the top 10. Please not the per capita income. It truly goes to show that those who have the most toys do not win! Starting with number 10

Austria - $38, 400

The great schools and terrific land along with a huge mix of religions living together account for Austria's happiness.

Canada - $38, 400

Canada has a rapidly growing economy, equalization payments are spread among richer and poorer provinces maintain a balance in federal administration. Strong nationalism, ethnic and religious tolerance, and a welcoming atmosphere for immigrants and refugees make Canada happy.

Netherlands- $38, 500

The Netherlands have a liberal approach to recreational drugs, prostitution, homosexuality, abortion, and euthanasia which make it the most socially tolerant society in the world. It clearly makes them happy and the U.N. Children's Fund ranks the Netherlands first in the world for child well-being.

Switzerland- $41,100

Switzerland has a stable government; it's beautiful and has a mixed population. Swiss citizens are able to directly petition the government clearly making them happy.

Ireland- $43,100

The Irish are optimists. Cultural, social and political life is important. The education is free at all levels.

Northern Ireland
Since the start of ceasefires in the 1990s, pounds have been invested in the regeneration of Northern Ireland's infrastructure. There is now pride and it is keeping the young people at home.

Iceland- $38,800

Huge in this country are economic and civic freedom. Iceland elected its first female head of state in 1980, and in 1996, Parliament passed legislation to create registered partnerships for same-sex couples.

Columbia- $6, 700

A destination for tourists, a high literacy rate and a mix of many ethnicities make Columbians happy.

Puerto Rico- $19, 600

Although Puerto Rico is an American territory since we are number 16 Puerto Rico was separated for the purposes of this study. It is called the "Island of Enchantment" with amazing weather, lots of music, gorgeous beaches and no federal income taxes.

Denmark is number 1 with a per capital income of $37, 400

This cold windy country has a free and successful economy, great education, social safety nets, and acceptance of everyone.

Souces

Business Week
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