State and happiness

There are discernable connections between nature of state and happiness. We have seen that happiness or subjective well-being depends on a variety of factors and contains several normative, affective and cognitive factors. Figure 19.1 shows the relationship between happiness and government. People feel happy with a government if:

• The people identify with the political head (even when there are no perceived tangible benefits of his headship)

• The government expresses allegiance to an ideology with which people identify.

• The government is seen plan to and initiate activities to benefit people.

• The leadership is perceived to be honest and transparent.

• There is no alternative to the government.