The Economics of Happiness conference

Around the world, the realization is dawning that the economic, environmental and social problems we face are linked. In March 2012, the Economics of Happiness Conference will bring together activists from around the world to discuss an agenda for change — away from jobless growth towards sustainable livelihoods; from large-scale sweatshops towards scaled-down business; from self-recrimination and guilt towards empowerment and collaboration; from a globalized system of exploitation and inequality towards an economics of happiness.

Hosted by the International Society for Ecology and Culture (ISEC), the conference will offer clarity on the way forward—towards more truly sustainable ways of living. It will cover a range of interconnected topics, including public policy choices; local initiatives in food, energy, education, business and banking; the need to bridge the North-South divide; and the influence of the economy on our psychological well-being. Presenters include Vandana Shiva, Bill McKibben, Annie Leonard, Sulak Sivaraksa, Michael Shuman, Joanna Macy, Gustavo Esteva, Richard Heinberg and many more.