One big problem with how we rank countries by happiness
Methodological challenges in measuring and ranking happiness through the Cantril Ladder question may skew results and fail to capture true well-being.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
The World Happiness Report indicates that Finland is the happiest country, but the methodology, which involves the Cantril Ladder question, may skew results. The Cantril Ladder asks respondents to rate their life satisfaction on a scale from 0 to 10, with 10 being the best possible life. Research shows that the question may lead people to focus on status and wealth rather than overall well-being. Responses can vary when different versions of the question are used, revealing the impact of cultural metaphors. Comparing happiness between countries can be misleading due to factors like social media’s influence on social comparison. The report’s focus on rankings may detract from a more nuanced understanding of happiness and well-being.