The Role of Government in Well-Being

Richard Layard advocates for a shift in the responsibilities of governments, emphasizing that instead of solely focusing on economic growth, their primary mission should be enhancing the well-being of citizens. This perspective is based on the understanding that happiness and overall life satisfaction are better indicators of societal success than traditional economic metrics like gross national income. Layard's work has influenced policy discussions, pushing governments to adopt measures that prioritize happiness, including psychological therapy as a critical component to combat mental illness, which he identifies as a significant contributor to unhappiness. By recognizing the role of a fulfilling life over mere economic statistics, Layard aims to realign governmental objectives with the true needs of the populace.