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An evaluation of the Wellington Regional Genuine Progress Index
Author(s) -
Packard Aaron,
Chapman Ralph
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
new zealand geographer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.335
H-Index - 25
eISSN - 1745-7939
pISSN - 0028-8144
DOI - 10.1111/j.1745-7939.2012.01216.x
Subject(s) - context (archaeology) , gross domestic product , index (typography) , government (linguistics) , regional science , political science , product (mathematics) , public economics , development economics , economics , economic growth , geography , computer science , philosophy , geometry , mathematics , archaeology , world wide web , linguistics
There is widespread discontent with the gross domestic product (GDP) as a measure of progress for society. Alternative measures have been proposed, including the genuine progress indicator (GPI). This paper examines the changing institutional arrangements and attitudinal context in the recently developed Wellington region (New Zealand) GPI. We found an alignment between the GPI framework and the Local Government Act. Despite this fit, we identified challenges, including the need to revitalise public participation through deliberative techniques. It remains too early to judge whether the GPI initiative will launch a viable alternative to the GDP for the Wellington region.