The Happiness Hypothesis: Ten Ways to Find Happiness and Meaning in Life

The Happiness Hypothesis: Ten Ways to Find Happiness and Meaning in Life is a book by social psychologist Jonathan Haidt that considers ten Great Ideas championed across centuries and civilisations. It asks how these long-standing ideas can be applied to life in the twenty-first century.

Haidt sets ancient wisdom against the findings of modern psychology, drawing out lessons on training the brain towards greater optimism, building stronger relationships and finding a sense of balance. He also looks at the obstacles to well-being that people place in their own way. The book references a wide range of sources, including Buddha, Benjamin Franklin and Shakespeare, in its exploration of happiness and meaning.

Key details

• Author: Jonathan Haidt
• Explores ten Great Ideas from across centuries and civilisations
• Connects ancient wisdom with modern psychology
• Considers optimism, relationships and balance
• References sources including Buddha, Benjamin Franklin and Shakespeare

Synopsis

Jonathan Haidt examines ten Great Ideas and considers how they can be used in contemporary life. By testing ancient wisdom through modern psychology, he outlines lessons on optimism, relationships and balance, and explores how people can overcome self-created obstacles to well-being. Drawing on sources from Buddha to Benjamin Franklin and Shakespeare, the book looks at ways to find happiness and meaning.