Increasing freedom
Sean Martin 12:50pm
The number of democracies worldwide has almost doubled in the last twenty years, standing at 123 in 2007. These freer and fairer political systems have dramatically increased people’s happiness, a survey has shown. Out of 52 countries, with ten years of data, well being rose in 40 instances.
When we think of development we tend to concentrate on income and GDP growth. But, as this study shows, monetary figures miss the true benefit of the freedoms a democratic society affords. Better minority and gender rights coupled with greater political and economic freedom has revolutionised developing societies and increased human well being. It is important when we evaluate progress human development is on at least a par with economic development. After all improving people’s lives is the aim of the game, and we should celebrate how democracy is achieving it.
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Verity
August 19th, 2008 3:44pm Report this commentWhat about countries with diminishing freedom. Oh, as an example, Britain, where the government has wormed its way into homes and families with new fiats on behaviour? Does this make for a happier population, knowing Harriet Harpic, Yvette Cooper, Ed Balls and Gordon Brown are watching over you with a concerned, furrow brow?
Nicholas
August 19th, 2008 4:53pm Report this commentVerity, I was thinking exactly the same thing!
http://www.magnacartaplus.org/civil-liberties/attacks.htm
Anglica
August 19th, 2008 5:39pm Report this commentWhat about the euSSR? That monster strikes me as an eater of democracies; and it's not what it eats, either!
TGF UKIP
August 19th, 2008 7:20pm Report this commentGREAT NEWS! So let's all hear it for the Great RR who gave it all propulsion. (And in another twenty years it might well be for the Great GWB who set the chain going.)
Marian C
August 20th, 2008 9:16am Report this commentVerity@3:44; Spot on again as usual. Keep on telling it as it is Verity, I always enjoy reading your comments.
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