Corrections to the human development index and alternative indicators of sustainability

Abstract

In this paper, the major roots of the global socio-ecological problems are identified (over consumption, moral crisis) and a new vision of sustainable development, focused on holistic spiritual, moral, psychological, physical and intellectual human development (instead of dominating consumerism) is proposed. The shortcomings of the human development index related to its components (life expectancy at birth and gross domestic product per capita) are discussed and some alternative indicators for measuring sustainable human development are proposed, e.g. proportion of population in full health. While eco-efficiency is suggested as the necessary condition of transition to sustainability, human mentality, based on the eco-centric grounds (socio-ecological wellbeing), environmental and human health, justice and holistic human development is considered as its key condition that can be achieved through an appropriate educational and institutional policy.