Inquiries Filed Under:

About the inquiry

This inquiry leads students through an investigation of the compelling question, Is globalized culture in Bhutan a good thing? The inquiry is shaped by three supporting questions, beginning with a question focused on what the Bhutanese people believe about the preservation of traditional culture. The second supporting question aims to tease out whether the differences between Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Gross National Happiness (GNH) differ significantly. While GDP measures economic activity, GNH assesses the holistic well-being of citizens, incorporating social, environmental, and cultural dimensions. The inquiry concludes with a supporting question on the challenges and opportunities of cultural change in Bhutan including navigating modernization while maintaining traditional values, addressing the impacts of globalization, and leveraging cultural heritage for sustainable development. These factors play crucial roles in Bhutan’s unique approach to development and cultural preservation.

Compelling Question

Is globalized culture in Bhutan a good thing?

Staging Question

Review and discuss visual images of various representations of Bhutanese culture and sort the images as being traditional and modern categories.

Summative Performance Task

Argument: Contentment or consumption: Is globalized culture in Bhutan a good thing? Construct an argument (e.g., detailed outline, poster, essay) that responds to the compelling question using specific claims and relevant evidence from sources while acknowledging competing views.

Extension: Students conduct interviews to identify examples of culture change due to globalization in their own culture(s).

Taking Informed Action

Understand: Research the 33 indicators of Gross National Happiness.

Assess: Evaluate the appropriateness of Gross National Happiness Indicators for use in the United States.

Act: Create a PSA advocating for the inclusion of a Gross National Happiness Indicator in U.S. domestic/economic policy.