The Happiness Problem: Expecting Better in an Uncertain World

by Sam Wren-Lewis

We appear to have more control over our lives than ever before. If we could get things right – the perfect job, relationship, family, body and mind – then we’d be happy. With enough economic growth and technological innovation, we could cure all societal ills. The Happiness Problem shows that this way of thinking is too simplistic and can even be no matter how much progress we make, we will still be vulnerable to disappointment, loss and suffering. The things we do to make ourselves happy are merely the tip of the iceberg. Sam Wren-Lewis offers an alternative process that acknowledges insecurity and embraces uncertainty. Drawing on our psychological capacities for curiosity and compassion, he proposes that we can connect with, and gain a deeper understanding of, the personal and social challenges that define our time

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction

304 pages, Paperback

Published December 8, 2019

Reviews

[Crispin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating ontology of happiness ranging through the personal, the community and the political/ecological/global. Key message: 'letting go' is necessary, tricky, and doable.

[Micha Fehr · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book a lot! It is well researched and manages to generate an impressive depth on the topic, while maintaining a very sober view of the topic of happiness. I intend to read it again. I will skip the second part which focuses more on society instead of on the individual. I can really recommend reading the first part.

[Jeannette]

Niet uitgelezen, kennelijk niet interessant genoeg om prioriteit te krijgen op mijn leeslijst.

[Ramon Girona · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite interesting book that tackles the problem of the definition of happiness in an individual and social level. The author’s hypothesis is based on the current concept of happiness focuses on control. Conversely there is a more rewarding but in some cases painful approach based on knowledge, compassion and curiosity. The third part of the book (maybe the most naïve and lacks of scientific grounds) explains in this context the global issues of our planet (poverty, global warming, crime, etc) and how a point of view that takes into account compassion, cooperation and fair distribution can make a huge difference.