In recent years, an animated interdisciplinary discussion has been fuelled by the evidence that, in the long-term, people's satisfaction with their lives is not significantly influenced by increases in their income and that other aspects of their lives, especially their social relationships, are of greater importance. This evidence raises a challenge to the economic policy paradigm that has traditionally emphasized income as the primary determinant of well being. In light of the new evidence: what should be done to improve the quality of people's lives? Can economic and social changes be made which enhance well-being? What policies are required? How do policies for well-being differ from traditional ones targeted on redistribution, the correction of market inefficiencies, and growth? Are there dimensions of well-being that have been neglected by traditional policies? Is happiness a meaningful policy target?
An answer to these questions may require an inter-disciplinary approach (economics, sociology, psychology, political science, urban science, anthropology, neuroscience). By means of this conference we intend to encourage a discussion among scholars of different disciplines with the aim of promoting research on economic, social and cultural reforms which are capable of generating well-being.