Definitions for "Human Development Index"
Keywords:  hdi, undp, literacy, decent, longevity
An annual assessment of the progress of nations in improving living standards. The indexes are produced by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and follow the assumption that economic growth does not necessarily equate to human development and improved well-being. The reports assess the actual impact of development on people, rather than using the Gross National Product (GNP) which is based purely on financial information like income and savings, commodity production and the accumulation of capital.
The HDI measures the overall achievements in a country in three basic dimensions of human development-longevity, knowledge and a decent standard of living. It is measured by life expectancy, educational attainment (adult literacy and combined primary, secondary and tertiary enrolment) and adjusted income.
A more accurate way of measuring development that combines several different indicators. Learn how to calculate the HDI from http://hdr.undp.org/statistics/indices/hdi_calculator.cfm.