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.
Showing 8 of 29 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.
Ev Williams is an American entrepreneur, best known as the co-founder of Twitter and Medium. Williams has a long history in the tech industry, having co-founded Blogger, one of the first blogging platforms, which was later acquired by Google. His work has significantly shaped online communication, giving people platforms to share their thoughts and ideas globally. Williams’ focus on simplicity and user experience has been a hallmark of his career. He continues to lead Medium, a platform that champions quality content and thoughtful discourse.
James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
Tony Hsieh was an innovative entrepreneur best known for his role as the CEO of Zappos, where he revolutionized online retail through a strong emphasis on company culture and customer service. Born on December 12, 1973, in Illinois, Hsieh graduated from Harvard University with a degree in computer science. He co-founded LinkExchange, which he sold to Microsoft for $265 million, before joining Zappos. Hsieh authored the best-selling book "Delivering Happiness" in 2010, outlining his business philosophy and insights into creating a positive workplace culture. His work has left a lasting impact on both the business world and the literature on corporate management and entrepreneurship.
Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.
Darya Rose is a celebrated author and neuroscientist known for her influential work in the field of nutrition and healthy living. She gained widespread acclaim for her book *Foodist: Using Real Food and Real Science to Lose Weight Without Dieting*, which offers a science-based approach to weight management and healthy eating. Rose holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of California, San Francisco, which lends credibility to her evidence-based recommendations. In addition to her writing, she is the creator of the popular blog Summer Tomato, where she shares insights on food, health, and lifestyle. Rose's work has inspired many to adopt more mindful and sustainable eating habits, making a significant impact on the wellness community.
Aubrey Marcus is an influential entrepreneur, author, and podcaster, best known for founding Onnit, a health and wellness company dedicated to optimizing human performance. He authored the acclaimed book "Own the Day, Own Your Life," which offers practical advice on improving daily routines for overall well-being. Marcus's contributions to literature extend through his insightful podcasts and articles that delve into personal development, mental health, and holistic living. As a thought leader, he has inspired countless individuals to pursue a balanced and fulfilling life. His work continues to resonate with a global audience, promoting a message of self-empowerment and holistic health.
Showing 8 of 13 related collections
“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.
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.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
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 '10% Happier', Dan Harris, a news anchor, candidly shares his journey from skepticism to embracing mindfulness and meditation after a panic attack on live television. With humor and vulnerability, he explores how a simple daily practice transformed his life, enhancing his happiness and emotional well-being. This revised edition delves deeper into the science of mindfulness, offering practical tips and relatable anecdotes that resonate with both beginners and seasoned practitioners. Harris's engaging narrative challenges readers to question their own happiness and consider the power of meditation. Could just 10% more happiness be achievable for you?
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.
'Cognitive Psychology' by Michael W. Eysenck and Mark T. Keane offers a riveting exploration into the inner workings of the human mind. Delve into the fascinating processes of perception, memory, and decision-making that shape our everyday experiences. With cutting-edge research and real-world applications, the authors unravel the complexities of cognitive functions in a way that captivates both novices and seasoned scholars alike. Discover how cognitive psychology influences everything from learning strategies to emotional responses. This book invites you to unlock the mysteries of thought and behavior, igniting a deeper understanding of what it means to be human.
In 'Abundance', Peter H. Diamandis and Steven Kotler explore the exhilarating possibilities of innovation and technology in overcoming global challenges. The authors argue that we are on the brink of a new era where exponential advancements can provide solutions to issues like hunger, scarcity, and disease. Through compelling case studies, they highlight visionary thinkers and entrepreneurs who are harnessing these resources to create a better future. This book not only challenges the prevailing narrative of scarcity but ignites a sense of hope and action. Dive in to discover how we can collectively shape a world of abundance!
In 'Authentic Happiness', psychologist Martin E. P. Seligman unveils the science behind what truly brings joy and fulfillment to our lives. He challenges the conventional notion of happiness, emphasizing that it can be cultivated through positive psychology practices. Readers embark on a transformative journey to discover their strengths and virtues, unlocking pathways to a more meaningful existence. With practical strategies and compelling research, Seligman advocates for a proactive approach to enhancing emotional well-being. Are you ready to explore the secrets to living authentically happy?
In 'Behave', Robert M. Sapolsky explores the intricate web of biology, psychology, and sociology that shapes human behavior. From the brain's neural activity to the influences of culture and upbringing, he examines what drives us to act the way we do. With a blend of science and storytelling, Sapolsky challenges the notion of free will, suggesting our actions are pre-determined by a multitude of factors. As readers delve into the depths of morality and ethics, they are left questioning the essence of human nature. Prepare to discover the surprising forces that govern not just behavior, but the very fabric of society itself.
In 'Happier,' Tal Ben-Shahar unveils the science behind happiness, blending ancient wisdom with modern psychology. He presents actionable strategies to cultivate daily joy and achieve lasting fulfillment. With insights drawn from personal anecdotes and empirical research, readers are invited to rethink their definitions of success and happiness. This transformative guide encourages self-reflection and practical exercises to foster a more satisfying life. Discover how small, intentional changes can lead to profound shifts in your overall well-being.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
