Final answer:
The Bhutanese government believes happiness arises from prioritizing spiritual and emotional well-being rather than accumulating wealth. The GNH emphasizes sustainable development, cultural values, environmental conservation, and good governance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Bhutanese government believes that its citizens will be happier if they prioritize spiritual and emotional well-being. Since 1972, Bhutan has emphasized Gross National Happiness (GNH) over traditional economic measures such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The concept of GNH suggests that holistic development is more important than mere economic growth, and it encompasses sustainable development, preservation and promotion of cultural values, conservation of the natural environment, and establishment of good governance.
Indeed, Bhutan has taken several measures to protect its environment and promote the well-being of its people, even at the expense of economic development.
For example, the sale of tobacco products is banned, and strict regulations are in place to ensure that tourism remains sustainable and does not negatively impact Bhutan's culture and environment.
Moreover, the emphasis on GNH rather than GDP aligns with Bhutan's Buddhist majority, acknowledging that material wealth does not necessarily equate to happiness.