ABSTRACT
Drawing on work done with the Ladaki people, this chapter encourages a fundamental shift towards economic localization, or a term coined by the author – “the economics of happiness”. This chapter proposed a new global system, based on interlinked self-reliant economies, that would embody distinctly different values than the ones that underpin the status quo. Localized economies put people and planet at the center, adapting financial structures and commercial activity to place and culture. They honor and enhance diversity in all ways – cultural, biological and agricultural. Localization fosters a multitude of meaningful jobs and forms the foundation for strong, resilient communities. This in turn provides for a true sense of belonging, purpose and connection, ultimately increasing psychological wellbeing.
