The Hidden Wealth of Nations

by David Halpern

Richer nations are happier, yet economic growth doesn't increase happiness. This paradox is explained by the Hidden Wealth of Nations - the extent to which citizens get along with other independently drives both economic growth and well-being. Much of this hidden wealth is expressed in everyday ways, such as our common values, the way we look after our children and elderly, or whether we trust and help strangers. It is a hidden dimension of inequality, and helps to explain why governments have found it so hard to reduce gaps in society. There are also deep cracks in this hidden wealth, in the form of our rising fears of crime, immigration and terror. Using a rich variety of international comparisons and new analysis, the book explores what is happening in contemporary societies from value change to the changing role of governments, and offers suggestions about what policymakers and citizens can do about it.

Genres: Economics, Nonfiction, Society, Sociology, Politics

280 pages, Paperback

First published November 6, 2009

Reviews

[Eric DeBellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who studied welfare economics in college, I am quite biased. I constantly belabor the point that economists study value, not money, and Halpern's The Hidden Wealth of Nations hit that nail on the head. It's a very approachable read. Halpern wrote it for a lay audience.

[Nicola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Easy to read, occasionally humorous (which I didn't expect!), detailed, informative, practical. Halpern has worked with Blair, Brown and Cameron. He is committed to data driven policy and has lots of evidence about what people really think, what works and what doesn't work. Ultimately, this is a book full of possibilities and optimism for what we could do as a society. I'd like to know what he thinks now.

[Jennifer]

from prime minister's recommended reading list. To be published in Aus in 2010. important.

[!Tæmbuŝu]

KOBOBOOKS

[Sean]

A very thought provoking read.