Public attitude towards the adoption of a wellbeing economic approach in Scotland.
The survey focused on some of the key principles and policies associated with a wellbeing economy and throughout the report we have evaluated how accepting people in Scotland are of the values that are related to a wellbeing-led economic approach.
• We conclude that there is significant support for the adoption of a wellbeing economic approach in Scotland, with a majority of respondents endorsing many of the wellbeing values and policies.
• The report recognises that people who reside in Scotland are likely to consider the purpose of public policy and economics to be to serve the needs of society and its people and should have a greater emphasis on wellbeing, quality of life, equality, fairness, health and happiness. This is an important finding with regard to future policymaking and suggests there is a demand for a more thorough wellbeing approach which is not yet being fully utilised by policymakers in Scotland.
• Throughout the survey there was a clear desire amongst respondents to rebuild society and the economy by adopting a new economic approach after the coronavirus pandemic. It is evident that this period of unrest has acted as a catalyst for change and the general public would welcome a new system that is more resilient and therefore less susceptible to any future health or economic crises.
• This report also evaluated the acceptance of a wellbeing approach across various policy areas. With regard to work and education, a greater focus on wellbeing was widely supported, with investment in innovation, improved work practices and free education all being greatly endorsed.
• Some of the concepts surrounding social equality faced a mixed reaction from respondents, with the idea of economic success being more equally shared receiving less support. However, eradicating poverty and investing in personal development opportunities were widely supported.
• Other policies associated with a wellbeing economic approach, such as the introduction of a Universal Basic Income (UBI), decentralisation and tackling climate change were all supported by a majority of respondents.
• Our analysis of the level of acceptance within society of the general principles and values of the wellbeing approach covers age, gender, political party affiliation and occupation. Therefore, we are able to pinpoint the groups of society that are most likely to endorse a wellbeing agenda and identify any political barriers to the adoption of this system.
• The results of this survey offer a degree of guidance to the policymaking community as we experience a period of great change and radical policymaking decisions. That is, the overwhelming desire for a greater implementation of policies associated with a wellbeing approach amongst the population of Scotland