This article explores the differing impacts of social comparison on happiness in Bangladesh and Finland. It highlights how pervasive social comparison in Bangladesh diminishes happiness, while Finns exhibit contentment by focusing on personal values rather than status. Factors such as modesty and effective governance in Finland create a conducive environment for happiness. The insights suggest that individuals can enhance their well-being by shifting comparison groups and prioritizing personal progress.
Happiness is a universal goal, albeit pursued via diverse means across cultures. Bangladesh and Finland illustrate stark contrasts influenced by economic, cultural, and governance differences, particularly in regards to social comparison. While Bangladesh exemplifies how pervasive social comparison diminishes happiness, Finland provides a framework where individuals are less inclined to engage in such comparisons, thus enhancing their overall well-being.
In Bangladesh, social comparison serves as a significant impediment to happiness. Children are ingrained with the belief that their accomplishments are only valid if they surpass those of their peers. Consequently, many Bangladeshi adults struggle with achieving happiness due to the early establishment of this competitive mindset, which extends into various life aspects.
Nonetheless, social comparison is not limited to Bangladesh. Across the globe, including the United States, people habitually compare their circumstances to those of others. An illustrative study involving Harvard students revealed a preference for earning lower income if it placed them ahead of their peers, thereby accentuating the psychological impact of relative income on happiness.
Professor Richard Layard of the London School of Economics argues that economic growth does not necessarily equate to increased happiness. He notes a phenomenon where a 1 percent rise in societal earnings correlates with a one-third decrease in individual happiness, illustrating the paradox of perceived relative income. Furthermore, comparing income with peers is common in Bangladesh, where individuals often gauge satisfaction based on relative income rather than personal circumstances.
In contrast, Finland has emerged as the happiest country globally, as reported consistently in the World Happiness Report. Although institutional factors play a crucial role in this happiness, the cultural tendency towards lesser social comparison enhances citizens’ contentment. Finns typically value modesty and prioritize simple pleasures over social status, leading to a healthier perspective on happiness.
Notably, institutional aspects, such as robust democratic systems and social benefits, significantly contribute to Finnish happiness. Finland’s effective governance fosters an environment where citizens experience less overall dissatisfaction, bolstering their well-being. The government’s role is to alleviate sources of unhappiness rather than directly generate happiness, thus proving effective in creating a happier society.
In conclusion, social comparison undermines happiness by fostering unrealistic expectations and negative emotions such as jealousy. While changing societal norms may take time, individuals in comparison-driven societies like Bangladesh might improve their happiness by shifting reference groups towards those with lower earnings and focusing on personal growth rather than constant comparison. Ultimately, individual perceptions relative to others significantly influence the potential for happiness.
Social comparison can detract from individual happiness by creating unrealistic standards and emotions such as jealousy. In Bangladesh, this cultural anchor may impede happiness, while in Finland, a focus on modesty and community allows for a more fulfilling life. Individuals in comparison-heavy societies can enhance their happiness by adjusting their reference points and concentrating on personal achievements instead of external comparisons. In essence, one’s self-view relative to others plays a pivotal role in determining happiness.
Original Source: thefinancialexpress.com.bd
