Untag Business and Accounting Review
Vol 2, No 2: October 2023

Do Economic Factors Dominate Happiness: A Comparison of Western and Eastern Cultures

Nusantara, Agung (Unknown)
Nawatmi, Sri (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Oct 2023

Abstract

This article explores the factors influencing happiness levels and compares them within the contexts of Western and Eastern cultures. It particularly examines the role of income in shaping happiness, with a focus on Western cultures, often associated with materialism, and Eastern cultures, frequently linked to spirituality. The analysis reveals four significant determinants of happiness: economic achievement, social support, health, and the freedom to make choices. While income, measured by per capita GDP growth, contributes to happiness, globally, freedom of choice and social support exert a more substantial influence. This holds true when comparing Europe and North America to Asia (excluding the Middle East) and when contrasting Western and Eastern cultures. The study underscores the significance of social and political factors in achieving happiness, emphasizing the need for prioritizing their development. Furthermore, it challenges the notion that Western cultures are solely materialistic and Eastern cultures entirely spiritual, highlighting the intricacies of cultural differences. In sum, these findings emphasize the need for more comprehensive and diverse research to understand variations within specific cultural and ethnic contexts.

Copyrights © 2023






Journal Info

Abbrev

UBAR

Publisher

Subject

Decision Sciences, Operations Research & Management Economics, Econometrics & Finance

Description

UNTAG Business and Accounting Review, an electronic international journal, provides a forum for publishing original research articles, review articles from contributors, and novel technology news related to management, accounting, and economics. This journal encompasses original research articles, ...