Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book is about systems change for individual and/or societal happiness (some refer to this as well-being or community well-being at the collective level) and planetary sustainability. It is a comprehensive guide for students and their teachers for improving individual happiness and engaging in societal change for the happiness and sustainability of our systems. The book discusses research throughout this book to demonstrate the validity of many of these concepts. It explains approachable and accessible language, the topic and concepts involved within the context of systems thinking. The book contains thought-provoking questions for students, ideas for group discussion and additional research and an extensive list of references. It helps span the gap between personal happiness and systems change in societies, economies, governments and other systems.