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Happiness and Transition: the Case of Kyrgyzstan

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Listed:
  • Ceema Namazie
  • Peter Sanfey

Abstract

The paper analyzes self‐reported measures of satisfaction with life in a transition country, Kyrgyzstan, using 1993 household survey data. The authors test whether higher levels of satisfaction are associated with greater economic wellbeing. This hypothesis is strongly supported by the data. Unhappiness is prevalent among older people, the unemployed, and those who are divorced. There appears to be little correlation between happiness and either gender or education level. There is some evidence that income relativities, as measured by perceived position on the wealth ladder, also have a strong effect on life satisfaction.

Suggested Citation

  • Ceema Namazie & Peter Sanfey, 2001. "Happiness and Transition: the Case of Kyrgyzstan," Review of Development Economics, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 5(3), pages 392-405, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:rdevec:v:5:y:2001:i:3:p:392-405
    DOI: 10.1111/1467-9361.00131
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D10 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - General
    • O53 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Asia including Middle East
    • P20 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Socialist and Transition Economies - - - General

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