Bhutan's Unique Development Philosophy: A Study in Gross National Happiness

In an increasingly modern society, Bhutan's unique development philosophy is worth studying and contemplating. Bhutan is the last country to open up to television and the internet, with a mobile phone penetration rate of only 30% and internet penetration rate of 5%, which seems out of sync with the modern world. While other countries are striving to develop their economies at all costs to boost GDP, Bhutan pursues Gross National Happiness as a measure of progress. Bhutan believes that happiness lies in managing desires reasonably, to achieve a balance between material and spiritual well-being, modernity and tradition, and economic growth and sustainable development. They are willing to embrace the benefits of modern technology, but at their own pace and according to their own needs, at a time they deem appropriate. They also desire economic prosperity, but not at the expense of their cherished traditional culture and environmental sustainability.