The Greatest Happiness Principle: An Imperative for Social Democracy? Dr Christian Kroll www.christiankroll.eu c.kroll [at] lse.ac.uk c.kroll [at] jacobs-university.de

Book chapter in: H. Meyer / J. Rutherford (eds.): "The Future of European Social Democracy - Building the Good Society“ Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.

Abstract The leading political movement of the future will be the one that facilitates the greatest happiness for the greatest number. Based on what the British economist Jeremy Bentham described as the greatest happiness principle 200 years ago, this tenet is becoming reality due to three game-changing developments: First, the upcoming academic ‘science of happiness’ offers a new approach to determine what makes a ‘Good Society’. It will increasingly enable us to measure the perceived well-being of individuals and populations, to analyse its determinants, and it can be a powerful, evidence-based tool for public policy. Second, our understanding of progress is currently being redefined at the international level with greater emphasis on human well-being and happiness. While the paradigm of the post-war era resulted in a focus on increasing Gross Domestic Product, the main purpose of public policy in the 21st century will be to enhance the electorate’s quality of life. Finally, the strong link between class affiliation and voting behaviour is dissolving in favour of a market logic in the political sphere. If Social Democrats want to remain a dominant political force they need to recognise these developments and be at the forefront of the debate. Ideologically, they would be in a good position to do so. Now they should get involved in these discourses and use them as a basis to formulate a new Social Democratic narrative.