DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN HAPPINESS: AN OPINION SURVEY OF THE RESIDENTS OF KOGI STATE

Research Problem: The assumption is that democracy ought to increase human happiness since it bestows upon the people the task of electing those that govern them in a free and competitive environment. Nigeria has had that golden opportunity since May 29, 1999, when democracy was restored. However, several misgivings still permeate the various segments of society. This study is therefore a survey of the residents of Kogi State to ascertain their happiness level using the globally standardized indicators of happiness as the yardsticks. Methods/Theory: It adopts both qualitative and quantitative research methods, uses data from primary and secondary sources, and adopts statistical and normative methods of data analysis to examine the relationship between democracy and human happiness in Kogi State. Results: The study among others finds that from the survey carried out, there is a positive correlation between democracy and satisfaction with life. It further indicates that democratic systems contribute to happiness by allowing citizens to participate freely in the political process, vote in legitimate elections, and hold their representatives accountable. Conclusion: Democracy has been generally adopted as the most acceptable system of government. It has become an acceptable pattern of political succession globally. There is a positive correlation between democracy and human happiness because of the possibility of democracy to guarantee freedom, human rights and political liberty. Key Contribution to Knowledge: It contributes to the discourse on the interrelationship between democracy and human happiness particularly at the sub-national level. Recommendations: There is need for the satisfaction of life of the people to be improved. Secondly, there is the need to improve the economic welfare of the people by improving the credibility of the electoral process.