
Collecting, distilling, and actioning local risk and resilience perspectives
In our dynamic world, evaluating human progress must extend beyond conventional metrics. Drawing from Sri Aurobindo’s wisdom, IntegralWorld presents “Human Progress Metrics,” a novel framework for gauging comprehensive well-being. Unlike the UN’s Human Development Index (HDI), our approach encompasses spiritual, social, and environmental dimensions, reflecting a deeper understanding of human flourishing. By embracing a holistic perspective, we aim to capture the intricacies of human experience and foster true progress that transcends economic measures alone. Through this innovative framework of assessing the holistic well-being of individuals and societies, we aspire to cultivate a more nuanced and inclusive approach to assessing human advancement in our ever-evolving global landscape.
In the midst of the digital revolution encompassing AI, automation, and other transformative technologies reshaping our lives and livelihoods, traditional metrics of success are proving inadequate. As the Global South rises and we confront the triple planetary crisis of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss, the urgency for a more nuanced understanding of progress becomes apparent.
The conventional Human Development Index (HDI) primarily focuses on factors like life expectancy, education, and income, offering a quantitative but limited view of human well-being. However, it fails to capture the qualitative dimensions crucial for true progress—truths about environmental sustainability, social consciousness, and individual fulfillment and means of bliss.
Enter the “Human Progress Metrics,” inspired by the profound insights of Sri Aurobindo. This initiative seeks to transcend the shallow measures of success, advocating for a holistic approach that integrates material prosperity with inner growth and environmental stewardship. By emphasizing the evolution of consciousness as central to human development, the “Human Progress Metrics” endeavor to redefine progress in a way that aligns with deeper values and fosters genuine well-being for individuals and societies alike.
Drawing from the profound insights of Vedic knowledge, IntegralWorld’s “Human Progress Metrics” offers a comprehensive framework for redefining human progress based on the principles of Sat-chit-ananda—truth, consciousness, and bliss.
The “Human Progress Index” represents a revolutionary shift in our understanding of human progress. It is designed to:
Environmental sustainability focuses on practices that maintain or enhance the health of ecosystems and the environment over the long term. It encompasses efforts to reduce carbon emissions, promote renewable energy sources, minimize pollution, and conserve natural resources.
Biodiversity conservation aims to protect and preserve the variety and variability of life on Earth. It involves safeguarding habitats, species, and genetic diversity to maintain ecological balance, ecosystem resilience, and the ability of ecosystems to support life. Social Equity
Social equity refers to fairness and justice in the distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within society. It encompasses efforts to address income inequality, ensure access to essential services for all individuals regardless of socioeconomic status, and promote equal rights and opportunities.
Community engagement involves the active participation of individuals and groups in initiatives, projects, and decision-making processes that affect their lives and communities. It fosters collaboration, empowerment, and collective action to address local issues, strengthen social ties, and build resilient communities.
Mental well-being encompasses emotional, psychological, and social aspects of health. It involves promoting positive mental health, preventing mental illness, and providing access to mental health services and support to address issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress.
Happiness and fulfillment reflect individuals' subjective experiences of well-being and life satisfaction. They encompass factors such as meaningful relationships, personal growth, purposeful activities, and a sense of inner peace and contentment. Promoting happiness and fulfillment contributes to overall quality of life and societal progress.