Bhutan: The Kingdom Where GDP Is Measured In Happiness

Summary

The script explores Bhutan's unique approach to modernization, emphasizing 'Gross National Happiness' over economic growth. It highlights the country's slow embrace of technology, such as the introduction of television and the internet, amidst a backdrop of strong cultural and spiritual traditions rooted in Buddhism. The narrative also touches on the environmental consciousness of the Bhutanese, their king's progressive policies, and the challenges of preserving their distinct identity in the face of globalization.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Bhutan is a mystical kingdom that has modernized at a slower pace, valuing its unique cultural identity over rapid development.
• 🚦 Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, is the only capital city in the world without traffic lights, relying on traffic police to manage flow due to aesthetic concerns.
• 🤔 Bhutan's approach to development focuses on 'Gross National Happiness' rather than 'Gross National Product', emphasizing happiness and well-being over material wealth.
• 🌱 Marijuana grows wild in Bhutan but is not used recreationally; instead, it's often fed to animals, reflecting the society's innocence and non-exploitation of the plant.
• 🎉 The Silver Jubilee celebration marks 25 years of the Dragon King's reign, showcasing the country's cultural richness and the king's popularity.
• 📈 Under the king's rule, Bhutan has seen significant improvements in life expectancy, education, health, and infrastructure, funded by hydroelectricity sales to India.
• 💰 Tourism is a major economic contributor, with the government imposing a minimum daily fee to control tourist numbers and protect the environment.
• 🌲 Bhutan prides itself on its environmental conservation, with increased forest cover and strict regulations on logging, reflecting the king's commitment to ecology.
• 🏞️ The country's natural beauty and biodiversity are major tourist attractions, with the government recognizing the value of preserving its wilderness.
• 📺 The introduction of television and the internet to Bhutan raises concerns about the potential impact on the country's culture and the challenges of managing new information flows.
• 🔄 Bhutan is embracing change and technology while striving to maintain its traditions and cultural identity in the face of globalization.

Q & A

What is unique about the traffic management in Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan?

Thimphu is the only capital city in the world with no traffic lights. They were installed a few years ago but were removed due to complaints about being unsightly, and traffic policemen returned to manage the traffic.

What concept does Bhutan prioritize over Gross National Product (GNP)?

Bhutan prioritizes Gross National Happiness (GNH) over GNP, focusing on the well-being of its subjects and balancing economic development with spiritual health and environmental sustainability.

Why is marijuana not used as a recreational drug in Bhutan, despite its abundance?

Marijuana grows wild in Bhutan but is not used as a recreational drug; instead, it is commonly fed to animals. This reflects the innocence of Bhutanese society and their non-exploitation of the substance for drug use.

What significant event is being celebrated during the Silver Jubilee in Bhutan?

The Silver Jubilee celebrates the 25th year of the Dragon King's reign, marking a significant milestone for the country and its people.

How has the King's reign contributed to the improvement of life expectancy in Bhutan?

During the King's reign, life expectancy in Bhutan has increased by an astounding 20 years, with impressive figures on education, health, clean water supply, and electricity.

What is Bhutan's approach to tourism to maintain a balance with its environment and culture?

Bhutan does not have a tourist quota, but the government charges a minimum of $250 USD per day to keep the numbers down and protect the environment and culture. The main tourist attraction is the wilderness in the Himalayan Foothills.

How does Bhutan's government show its commitment to ecology and environmental preservation?

Bhutan's government has banned logging by private companies, increased forest cover, and recently banned plastic bags. The King himself has to obtain a permit to get a tree for personal use, showing a strong commitment to ecology.

What role does Buddhism play in Bhutan's culture and its approach to development?

Buddhism is the driving force of Bhutan, influencing its traditions and development philosophy. It promotes a benign relationship with the environment, emphasizing non-harming of living beings and spiritual well-being over materialistic pursuits.

How is Bhutan adapting to inevitable change and the influence of globalization?

Bhutan recognizes the inevitability of change and is encouraging the preservation of traditions while adapting to new technologies and global influences, such as the introduction of television and the internet.

What impact does the introduction of television have on Bhutan, according to some residents?

Some residents are dubious about the impact of television, fearing the introduction of consumerism culture and aggressive advertising, which could be very attractive and potentially overwhelming to Bhutanese society.

How is the King of Bhutan responding to the challenges of modernization while maintaining the country's unique identity?

The King of Bhutan is introducing new legislation to devolve power to his subjects, promoting intellectual development, and encouraging the preservation of traditions while cautiously embracing new technologies and global influences.