Toward an Integrated Science of Wellbeing

For too long, various dimensions of a rich and multidimensional understanding of wellbeing have, in practice, been researched and discussed in isolation. Bringing together their interconnections offers a more useful and relevant appreciation of how the world works, but also a more hopeful way of envisaging and building a better future.” * Dr. Katherine Trebeck, Wellbeing Economy Alliance *An integrated science of wellbeing taking its cue more from the inclusive vision of Alfred Russell Wallace than from his narrower but more famous co-discoverer of natural selection, Charles Darwin, provides an enlightening and constructive change of perspective. Highly recommended.” * Herman Daly, Emeritus Professor, School of Public Policy, University of Maryland *As the world seeks to build forward better from the devastating socio-economic effects of COVID-19 and advance progress across the Sustainable Development Goals, it is vital to find better ways to measure progress * with the health and wellbeing of people and planet at its core. This publication by Rieger, Costanza, Kubiszewski and Dugdale is a significant addition to this critical debate by arguing for an integrated, scientific approach to wellbeing. Toward an Integrated Science of Wellbeing typifies the acute need for countries and communities to leverage the immense power of science, rigorous analysis, and original thinking to drive the profound change we now need as we work together to achieve a greener, more inclusive, and more sustainable future for all.“Achim Steiner, Administrator, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) *This volume offers a compelling overview of the most recent and relevant developments of the emerging Science of Well-Being. By bringing together findings and frameworks from various disciplines and fields of research and by connecting the economic, social, environmental, relational and personal dimensions of well-being, the book advances the understanding of the topic in a fundamental way. It also provides numerous insights for policy and opens avenues for future research. A must read for all scholars, practitioners and decision-makers committed to improving people’s well-being in a sustainable manner.” * Romina Boarini, OECD *Toward an Integrated Science of Wellbeing provides a fascinating and internationalist tour of how wellbeing is being conceptualised and operationalised at the psychological, health and wellbeing, societal and environmental levels. Importantly it integrates interactions across levels and gives readers a vision for societal redesign that provides hope for the future.” * Gerry McCartney, Professor of Wellbeing Economy, University of Glasgow *Highly topical and timely. This systemic approach to well-being, encompassing the personal, the social and the environmental dimensions of a good life, is much needed for tackling the complex threats of our times.” * Orsolya Lelkes, PhD *

Elizabeth Rieger, PhD, is an academic and clinical psychologist in the School of Medicine and Psychology at the Australian National University.

Robert Costanza, PhD, is a professor at the Institute for Global Prosperity, University College London.

Ida Kubiszewski, PhD, is Associate Professor at the Institute for Global Prosperity, University College London.

Paul Dugdale, PhD, is Honorary Professor of Public Health in the School of Medicine and Psychology at the Australian National University and Principal Medical Advisor for Aspen Medical.