Prof Madan Mohan Goel, Former Vice-Chancellor
(Asian independent) The World Happiness Report (WHR) 2025, published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford in collaboration with Gallup and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, underscores the profound impact of caring and sharing on global happiness. This year’s report, spanning 260 pages across eight chapters, reveals that acts of benevolence not only uplift recipients but also bring fulfillment to those who extend kindness. Echoing Shakespeare’s Merchant of Venice, where mercy is described as “twice-blessed,” the WHR 2025 reinforces the dual benefits of benevolence for both the giver and the receiver.
Key Findings from the WHR 2025
- Underestimation of Benevolence: People tend to be overly pessimistic about the goodwill of others. For instance, an experiment involving the dropping of wallets in public places demonstrated that the percentage of returned wallets was significantly higher than expected. This finding is encouraging, as it highlights the inherent kindness present in society.
- Perception vs. Reality: Our well-being is shaped not only by the actual benevolence of others but also by our perception of it. Since people often underestimate societal kindness, their happiness can be improved by recognizing the true nature of human goodwill.
- Benevolence and Equality in Happiness: In societies with greater acts of kindness, happiness is more evenly distributed, benefiting those who are least happy the most. This means that fostering a culture of compassion can contribute to reducing emotional inequalities.
- The ‘Benevolence Bump’ Post-COVID-19: The pandemic saw a rise in acts of benevolence across all regions as people extended help to those in need. While there was a decline from 2023 to 2024, acts of kindness remain 10% above pre-pandemic levels, suggesting a sustained positive shift in societal behavior.
- Rising Loneliness Among Young People: Trends indicate that loneliness is increasing, particularly among the youth. In 2023, 19% of young adults globally reported having no one to rely on for social support—a 39% rise since 2006. However, interventions revealing the kindness of peers, such as a study conducted at Stanford University, have demonstrated significant improvements in student well-being.
- Despair and ‘Deaths of Despair’: The antithesis of happiness is despair, which can result in substance abuse and suicide. While such deaths are declining in most countries, exceptions include the United States and South Korea, where the trend remains concerning.
India’s Standing in Global Benevolence
India’s rankings in various benevolence indicators are revealing:
- Donations: 57th
- Volunteering: 10th
- Helping a Stranger: 74th
- Returning a Lost Wallet: Neighbor (115th), Stranger (86th), Police (93rd)
These rankings highlight India’s strong culture of volunteering but also indicate areas where trust and kindness can be further cultivated.
Needonomics: A Path to Collective Happiness
The principles of the Needonomics School of Thought, propounded by Professor Madan Mohan Goel, align closely with the findings of WHR 2025. Needonomics emphasizes ethical economic choices based on necessity rather than excess. In the context of happiness, this approach suggests prioritizing emotional and social well-being over material wealth.
Key Takeaways from Needonomics for Enhancing Happiness:
- Fostering Trust and Social Capital: The reluctance to return lost wallets reflects a trust deficit. Needonomics advocates for a culture where honesty and integrity are integral to daily life.
- Prioritizing Community over Competition: Volunteering is an area where India excels. Expanding this spirit to everyday interactions can improve overall happiness.
- Recognizing and Encouraging Benevolence: People often underestimate the kindness of others. By sharing positive stories of altruism, we can create a ripple effect of goodwill.
- Balancing Economic Growth with Ethical Values: True happiness extends beyond wealth accumulation. Policies should focus on holistic well-being, ensuring that economic progress does not come at the cost of mental and social health.
A Call for Action
To climb the happiness index (currently 118th, up from 124th in 2024), India must embrace Needonomics by reinforcing the values of kindness, trust, and mutual support. Investing in what truly matters—beyond wealth and health—will not only elevate India’s ranking but also create a more compassionate and harmonious society.
Happiness is not just an individual pursuit; it thrives in communities where benevolence is the norm. By nurturing a culture of Needonomics, we can move towards a more content and resilient world, where acts of kindness define our progress and prosperity.
