Applying optimisation programming and research generator methods to measure subjective well-being within country

Abstract

Survey data collected from eight countries (Japan, Switzerland, Singapore, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Bhutan, and Indonesia) are used to extract social resources through optimisation programming technique as well as resource generator method. These resources are used to propose an aggregated subjective well-being (SWB) indicator in each country. Relationship between this indicator and gross domestic product (GDP) per capita is also examined to consider economy impact on SWB. The results indicate that a high GDP per capita is a necessary factor to improve well-being, but non-economic pillar is also essential. Non-economic domains of SWB are more influential in Bhutan, and Indonesia (developing countries). In contrast, the results show a positive relation between the economic domain and SWB in the rest of countries (developed countries). The Safety and Relief, Life Satisfaction, and Expertise and skills factors are significant domains for SWB in developed countries. While, Health and welfare, safety and Relief, and Economic Stability are influential factors in Bhutan, and Indonesia.