Relationship between global measures of creativity and happiness as indicators of national performance : a fact or a myth?

Abstract

This paper aims to assess and interpret the relationship between creativity and happiness. The central question is: Is it correct to claim that a relationship exists between the Global Creativity Index and the national measure of happiness? It is necessary to gain a better understanding of how happiness and creativity correlates on a national level, as both concepts are linked to national prosperity and by extension, also to the ability to overcome future difficulties. It would also be advantageous to w1derstand what other variables influence these factors, so that we can improve the conditions and foster creativity. Ultimately, the findings of this thesis could help inform governments and policy-makers improve their citizens' sense of well-being. Initially, the basic concepts of creativity, creative class, creativity index, happiness and national performance are reviewed and defined. The known relationships between creativity and well being in humans are also examined. Shortcomings with current definitions arc highlighted and will help define future research. This thesis draws upon secondarily data sources for quantitative research material. Sources for those data sets include the World Value Survey, World Database of Happiness and the Gallup World Poll. Using a mixture of descriptive statistics and regression analysis, the correlations between happiness and creativity are empirically assessed. Limitations of the data sets are also fully discussed.