gross national hapiness index

[eppie]

I just simply don't see the connection between how others are doing and my own happiness.

Well if everyone around you has an ipad, chances are you want one as well. And if you don't have it that may influence your hapiness.

For ipad you can of course als fill in health care, a pet, stability, safety etc. etc.

Of course some people are less susceptible for this, and that is great for them, but comparing with your peers is a very human thing to do.