Evaluating National Success Beyond Economic Output

A nation reports a very high average income per person and rapid economic growth. However, it also experiences severe air and water pollution, a large and growing gap between the richest and poorest citizens, and widespread public reports of corruption in government and business. Based on a comprehensive view of national well-being, which of the following statements is the most accurate assessment of this nation's situation?

A government task force is creating a new national well-being dashboard. Match each specific metric to the broader component of well-being it is designed to measure.

Policy Impact on National Well-being

A nation that successfully achieves the highest average income per person and the lowest unemployment rate among all nations has definitively achieved the highest possible level of national well-being.

Critique of an Economic Policy Focus

A government is considering several long-term national goals. Arrange the following goals in order, from the one that reflects the narrowest view of national success to the one that reflects the most comprehensive and multi-faceted view of national well-being.

A comprehensive view of a nation's prosperity, often described as a 'recipe for a better life,' recognizes that factors such as a clean environment, accessible education, and a high degree of social ____ are crucial components alongside traditional economic measures.

Consider two hypothetical nations:

• Nation A: Reports the highest average income per person in the world and a very low unemployment rate. However, it also has significant air pollution in its major cities, a large gap in wealth between its richest and poorest citizens, and low levels of public trust in institutions.
• Nation B: Has a moderate average income and a slightly higher unemployment rate than Nation A. However, it is known for its pristine natural environment, a highly equitable distribution of wealth, excellent public schools, and a strong sense of community and trust among its citizens.

Which of the following statements makes the most accurate judgment about the overall well-being of these two nations?

National Development Strategy Evaluation