Published
Nov 28, 2019Page count
304 pagesISBN
978-1447353553Dimensions
216 x 138 mmImprint
Policy PressPublished
Nov 28, 2019Page count
304 pagesISBN
978-1447353560Dimensions
Imprint
Policy PressPublished
Nov 28, 2019Page count
304 pagesISBN
978-1447353560Dimensions
Imprint
Policy Press
The Happiness Problem
In the media
On our blog: The importance of trust in a time of crisis
On our blog: PODCAST: Happiness is nice but it won’t solve the world’s problems
On our blog: What is ‘real change’ and what does happiness have to do with it?
On our blog: Why the problems of democracy and happiness have more in common than you think
On our blog: 'What being happier together would actually look like'
Why transformation requires a new vision of happiness in openDemocracy
'FOCUS: What We Can Learn From the UK Election (and the History of Human Development)' in Discover Society
'What’s beyond wellbeing measurement?' in Happy City
'Book of the week: The Happiness Problem' in Idler
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 harmful: 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
Sam Wren-Lewis is an independent scholar, a wellbeing consultant and former Head of Research and Development at Happy City. His website is www.happinessproblem.com.
Introduction: The happiness problem
Part I
one Security
two Control
three Certainty
Part II
four Uncertainty
five Curiosity
six Compassion
Part III
seven Changing society
eight Changing the world
Conclusion: The happiness opportunity
