According to an extensive international survey of 90 nations the Danes are the happiest people in the world. And the Danes’ happiness is increasing much faster than in other countries, writes national Danish daily Berlingske Tidende.

On a “happiness scale” from 1-10, 1 being deep depression and 10 ultimate happiness, the Danes reach a happiness score of 8.0. The figure was arrived at by asking a representative selection of Danes how satisfied they were with their present life. The same high level of happiness is found in only two other countries, Switzerland and Malta; however, contrary to these two, happiness in Denmark is progressing significantly. Just a few years back, Denmark was no. 2 after Switzerland.

A comprehensive scientific survey of the happiness condition in more than 90 nations worldwide has been released. The survey is named World Database of Happiness and consists of more than 10,000 population surveys. Behind the database, which among other things receives a full mention in this week’s edition of the recognized American weekly Time, is professor Ruut Veenhoven from Erasmus University in Rotterdam, Holland. He is an internationally recognized professor in “social conditions for happiness” and has gathered his extensive analysis material over a period of more than twenty years.

http://www2.eur.nl/fsw/research/happiness/