What is wellbeing? How do we achieve it?
The world prioritises economic growth, and it isn’t working. If the purpose of government is to serve its citizens, shouldn’t the wellbeing of those citizens be its driving force?
For Matt Fisher, the first step towards achieving this is a tangible and actionable definition of wellbeing — a clear guide towards creating a society that is not designed to benefit the few, but to build communities where wellbeing can thrive for the many.
In his book How to Create Societies for Human Wellbeing, discover:
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How modern society has become increasingly misaligned with human wellbeing (particularly for those most vulnerable).
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The critical role stress plays in our ability to feel well, and its impact on individuals and communities.
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Defining wellbeing as the seven “abilities” needed to thrive, and how governments can help create the conditions to develop and put these abilities into action.
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How society could be transformed if we aimed to create communities that support human flourishing.
Matthew Fisher centres his art, writing, research and life on uncovering and promoting principles of wellbeing.
Matt is a research fellow with Stretton Health Equity, part of the Stretton Institute at the University of Adelaide in South Australia. He lives in Blackwood with his wife Katherine and together they have two daughters, Phoebe and Sabina. Matt maintains an extensive native garden, enjoys regular bush walks, and a good hike, camp or canoe trip.
Explore published works
What does it take to build societies that truly support wellbeing for all? That question sits at the heart of Matt’s research and writing.
Through years of work in public health and social policy, he examines how political choices, social systems, and community action can address inequality, reduce harm, and promote thriving lives.
Services
Understanding the principles of wellbeing—and how to create the conditions for it to thrive—is essential across government, community, and primary health sectors.
Discover training opportunities designed to help your organisation apply practical and strategic approaches to advancing human wellbeing.
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