Beyond GDP: Rethinking Growth and Well-being in Cities and Regions

This edited volume examines how cities and regions can redefine prosperity beyond conventional measures of economic growth. It explores the limitations of GDP as an indicator of social progress and presents multidimensional approaches that incorporate subjective and objective well-being, social cohesion, environmental sustainability, spatial justice, and quality of life. Contributions from economics, geography, sociology, psychology, political science, environmental studies, and related disciplines explain why well-being must be understood in relation to place. The chapters examine how housing, mobility, access to services, education, environmental quality, governance, cultural ecosystems, and territorial inequalities shape people’s everyday experiences and future opportunities. The volume combines theoretical advances, methodological discussions, and empirical studies. Its chapters address the measurement of well-being, the design of territorial indicators and dashboards, the relationship between subjective perceptions and material conditions, and the role of institutions and public policies in supporting equitable and sustainable development. Case studies from European cities and regions demonstrate how post-GDP approaches can inform territorial analysis and public action. The book will be of interest to researchers, students, policymakers, and practitioners in regional science, economic geography, urban and regional studies, public policy, sustainability, social indicators, and well-being studies.