Life as a whole

In this video we look at a type of approach that could be described as considering “life-as-a-whole”. Using a typology developed by Dutch sociologist Ruut Veenhoven we will ask the question how the complexities of wellbeing we engaged with in weeks 1 and 2 can be meaningfully applied to policy analysis.

To do this we need to be able to understand which areas of policy need to be addressed through the wellbeing lens in order to achieve better experiences and positive societal outcomes.

It is important to pay attention to the contexts which make positive or negative experiences more likely. Furthermore, a clear awareness of our intended effects for individuals and societies is crucial in ensuring that our analyses and subsequent practical solutions are based on thinking at the appropriate level.