In 'The Happiness Hypothesis', Jonathan Haidt delves into the ancient wisdom of happiness, exploring how age-old philosophies intersect with modern psychology. He presents a compelling argument that our well-being can be influenced by both our external circumstances and internal beliefs. By examining ten great ideas from various cultures, Haidt reveals surprising insights about love, morality, and the meaning of life. This engaging blend of science and philosophy challenges readers to rethink what truly brings happiness. Are we mere puppets of our circumstances, or can we take charge of our own joy?
By Jonathan Haidt
Published: 2006
"The secret to happiness is not in seeking more, but in nurturing the wisdom to appreciate what we already have."
The bestselling author of The Righteous Mind draws on philosophical wisdom and scientific research to show how the meaningful life is closer than you think The Happiness Hypothesis is a book about ten Great Ideas. Each chapter is an attempt to savor one idea that has been discovered by several of the world's civilizations--to question it in light of what we now know from scientific research, and to extract from it the lessons that still apply to our modern lives and illuminate the causes of human flourishing. Award-winning psychologist Jonathan Haidt, the author of The Righteous Mind, shows how a deeper understanding of the world's philosophical wisdom and its enduring maxims--like "do unto others as you would have others do unto you," or "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger"--can enrich and even transform our lives.
Jonathan Haidt is an American social psychologist, author, and professor known for his research on the psychology of morality and the interplay between culture, morality, and politics. He is the author of several influential books, including 'The Happiness Hypothesis', 'The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion', and 'The Coddling of the American Mind', co-authored with Greg Lukianoff. Haidt's writing style is characterized by its clarity, engaging narrative, and an emphasis on empirical research, making complex ideas accessible to a broad audience. Through his work, he seeks to foster understanding between differing viewpoints and address the divisions in contemporary society.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'Fiasco,' Frank Partnoy unveils the chaotic world of financial markets, where seemingly sound decisions can lead to catastrophic failures. He provides a gripping narrative of the 2008 financial crisis, dissecting the miscalculations and greed that fueled it. Through engaging anecdotes and sharp insights, Partnoy challenges readers to rethink risk and the nature of financial systems. This exploration serves as both a cautionary tale and a deep dive into the mechanisms that govern our economy. Prepare to question everything you thought you knew about finance and the true cost of ambition.
In '12 Rules for Life', psychologist Jordan B. Peterson distills life lessons from psychology, philosophy, and mythology into twelve profound principles for personal growth. Each rule invites readers to confront the chaos of existence and embrace responsibility, guiding them toward meaning and order. Peterson's compelling narratives and incisive insights challenge conventional wisdom, urging self-reflection and accountability. As readers navigate through the complexities of life, they discover how to build a stable foundation for themselves and their communities. This thought-provoking book promises to provoke deep contemplation and inspire transformative change.
In 'Code', Charles Petzold takes readers on a captivating journey through the world of programming and computer science. He unravels the complex tapestry of how computers work, starting from simple concepts and building up to intricate systems. Through engaging anecdotes and metaphors, Petzold demystifies the inner workings of machines, making them accessible to everyone. This exploration not only reveals the beauty of code but also challenges us to think critically about the impact of technology in our lives. Prepare to see the digital world around you in a whole new light!
Dive into the tumultuous life of Howard Hughes, a man who soared to monumental heights in aviation, film, and business, only to be engulfed by his own demons. This captivating biography unravels the contradictions of Hughes' persona – genius, tycoon, and recluse – against the backdrop of America's golden age. Discover how his innovations revolutionized industries while his personal struggles highlighted the fragility behind fame. Barlett and Steele meticulously explore the man behind the myth, revealing the complexities of a visionary battling his inner turmoil. Prepare to be drawn into a world of ambition, mystery, and the haunting consequences of genius.
In 'Thirty Rooms to Hide In,' Luke Sullivan invites readers into a labyrinth of memory and imagination, exploring the complexities of family, identity, and the spaces we inhabit. Through vividly drawn characters and poignant storytelling, Sullivan reveals the hidden corners of life that we often overlook. Each 'room' serves as a metaphor for the emotional landscapes we navigate, offering both refuge and reflection. As the protagonist confronts past traumas, the lines between reality and memory blur, engaging readers in a journey of self-discovery. Will you dare to enter each room and uncover the secrets they hold?
In 'The Social Leap', William von Hippel explores the evolutionary journey of humanity, revealing how our social skills shaped our survival. He illustrates how navigating complex social landscapes was pivotal in our ancestors' adaptation and success. By intertwining psychology, anthropology, and evolutionary biology, Von Hippel uncovers the secrets behind human behavior and social dynamics. The book challenges readers to rethink the significance of cooperation and competition in our daily lives. Prepare to embark on a fascinating journey that will transform your understanding of what it means to be human.
In 'Leading Minds', Howard E. Gardner explores the intricacies of creativity and genius through the lens of psychological theory. He delves into the minds of influential leaders across cultures and epochs, revealing how they think and what drives their innovation. Gardner presents a compelling case for the interplay of personality, culture, and values in shaping extraordinary leaders. With a blend of biography and analysis, the book invites readers to ponder what truly defines greatness in leadership. This thought-provoking journey promises to inspire and challenge your understanding of influence and creativity.
Showing 8 of 30 similar books

Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.

Jack Edwards is a British YouTuber, content creator, and author known for his videos on literature, academia, and productivity. Edwards gained popularity through his educational content, which includes book recommendations, study tips, and insights into university life. He is an advocate for reading and lifelong learning, often encouraging his audience to explore literature and improve their academic skills. Edwards has also written a book, The Uni-Verse, which offers advice to students navigating university life. His work has made him a well-known figure in the educational and literary communities, particularly among young readers and students.

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.

Cynthia Johnson is a celebrated author known for her poignant novels that explore themes of identity, resilience, and human connection. She gained critical acclaim with her debut novel, "Whispers in the Wind," which won the National Book Award for Fiction. Her subsequent works, including "Echoes of the Past" and "Fragments of Tomorrow," have been praised for their lyrical prose and deeply emotional narratives. Johnson's contributions extend beyond her writing, as she actively mentors emerging writers and advocates for literacy programs in underserved communities. With a career spanning over two decades, she has firmly established herself as a significant voice in contemporary literature.
“The secret to happiness is not in seeking more, but in nurturing the wisdom to appreciate what we already have.”
The Happiness Hypothesis
By Jonathan Haidt
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.