Money Can Buy Happiness — This Oxford Philosopher Says Charities Should Pay Attention

Inside Philanthropy

Foundations and nonprofits measure impact and effectiveness in various ways, but happiness per dollar isn’t typically one of the metrics used.

Maybe it should be.

That’s the argument being put forth by Michael Plant, founder and research director of Happier Lives Institute (HLI), a nonprofit that promises to help donors “convert your cash into a happiness multiplier.” It does this by identifying the most cost effective charities — as measured by their ability to increase the happiness and wellbeing of those they reach.