A State of Happiness

With the recent government shutdown it seems as though our representatives in government reside more often than not in a stalemate, promoting personal party agendas rather than making productive policies that will benefit citizens. In an country that is driven by profits, what can we expect when those individuals making policies follow a profit motivated model of governance.

Imagine a nation where, instead of judging economic development in gross national product, development is gauged on gross national happiness. Instead of conglomerate chemical companies controlling food production, a national organic agricultural standard is mandatory. Seems like a lofty fantasy doesn't it?

Thanks Kyle Taylor!

                                                                

In Bhutan, this is reality. Government officials in Bhutan have banned pesticides altogether striving to create a healthy environment and population. Policies like a national organic agricultural standard are possible because the government's priority in Bhutan, rooted in Buddhist philosophy, are to first make the people happy. National development is evaluated based on the overall happiness of its people rather than profit and material production. 

 So how can we push for implementation of policies like those in Bhutan such as a national organic standard? Every time you purchase a product you are submitting a vote and companies are taking note! Collectively we can communicate that we demand authentically organic foods and personal care products. By buying organic we are making an investment in the future of the environment and our health. Often times it feels as though our representatives aren't listening, but if we make simple choices everyday to benefit ourselves and others, a small drop can make a huge ripple.