Adventures Of An Incurable Optimist – Michael J Fox in Bhutan July 23rd, 2009 • by Matt Holmes The Gross National Happiness of Bhutan The whole world, shaken by economic woes, is taking a closer look at optimism. Imagine a country which measures its success with a figure for “Gross National Happiness” instead of Gross National Product. Inspired by BHUTAN’S overarching development policy, “Gross National Happiness” (GNH), Michael J Fox was recently in Bhutan for his new documentary. Fox visits the secluded Himalayan nation of Bhutan, a modern-day Shangri La that stresses the importance of joy in everything it does. Can happiness actually be legislated? Fox is fascinated by this nation’s commitment to the positive well-being of its citizens.” GNH is a concept coined by the fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck in the 1970’s. GNH is a more holistic approach to development than Gross National Product (GNP). GNH is based on the Buddhist philosophy of the “Middle path.” While conventional development models stress production and economic growth as the ultimate objective, the concept of GNH is based on the premise that true development of human society takes place when material and spiritual development occur side by side to complement and reinforce each other. “I’d read about Bhutan. I was really intrigued by the concept of gross national happiness, and I wanted to see if it really was what it was reported to be,” the star of such worldwide hits as the ‘Back to the Future’ trilogy told Kuensel. “Bhutan sets an excellent example,” said Michael J. Fox. “The fourth King and the government have been very wise and the people have been very smart and responsible in the way that they’ve responded to their leadership. I hope that y’all are aware of the gift you’ve been given, about where you live and how beautiful it is, and also how you’ve taken care of it.” He said that, although he was not a Buddhist, his visit to Bhutan and the development policy of Gross National Happiness had reinforced his own personal philosophy about being optimistic and positive about the future. Fox said he hoped Americans would learn from his documentary that being positive was a universal trait, especially during the current economic recession. Michael J Fox travels across the globe to explore the enduring strength of hope. He talks to both famous and everyday people, venturing everywhere from the Far East to President Barack Obama’s inspiring inauguration – all for a one-hour special, Michael J. Fox: Adventures of an Incurable Optimist. To learn more about guided tours to Bhutan with Boundless Journeys please explore our Bhutan Tours About Boundless Journeys, Selected as one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by National Geographic Adventure, February 2009; and as the #7 Best Tour Operator in the World by Travel & Leisure, August 2009 If diversity of adventure is what you are seeking, Boundless Journeys has trips to satisfy your most imaginative spirit. Offering worldwide adventure tours, featuring experiences ranging from wilderness treks to cultural journeys, we always find the hidden gems of each destination. Small group or private itineraries, memorable accommodations, and expert local guides define the signature Boundless Journeys adventure travel experience.