A new study by a group of 13 experts, including economist Douglas Harris, has found that despite being one of the wealthiest nations in the world, the US is struggling in many areas. The report, released yesterday, listed 37 measures of national well-being, with economic output being the only area where the US excels compared to its peers.
According to the study, Americans are “so wealthy but so unhappy.” Historian Bradley Birzer noted that this disconnect between wealth and happiness is a central question of modernity. The group found that while most Americans agree on the importance of many topics, community involvement and environmental conditions were the only two areas where opinions were divided.
The study’s findings come as the US is facing numerous challenges, including rising income inequality, declining economic growth, and increasing polarization. It raises questions about what it takes to truly measure a nation’s success and whether the pursuit of wealth has come at the cost of other important values such as community and environmental sustainability.
As the US continues to grapple with these issues, the report serves as a reminder that there is still much work to be done to ensure that everyone in America has access to the opportunities and resources they need to thrive.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/04/briefing/a-wealthy-and-unhappy-nation.html