The Happiness Hypothesis [Paperback]

"Library Journal," Best Books 2006
"With singular gusto, Haidt measures ten 'Great Ideas' against past/present research in psychology and science. "LJ" 's verdict: Dr. Phil et al. don't have diddly on the old-school sages. No man is an island, indeed, and no modern reader should be without this carefully considered demystification of life."

Darrin McMahon, "The Washington Post""
""[T]he psychologist Jonathan Haidt shows in his wonderfully smart and readable "The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom" [that] modern science and history have a lot to say to each other.""
"
"Nature"
"This is a delightful book... Haidt's writing embraces spiritual and mystical viewpoints while retaining scientific and rational coherence.""
""
Guardian "(London)
"[A] marvelous book...I don't think I've ever read a book that laid out the contemporary understanding of the human condition with such simple clarity and sense.""
""Psychology Today""Haidt's remedy for the modern glut of frivolous self-help literature is to review and revise the classics, examining the ideas of thinkers like Plato, Buddha and Jesus in light of modern research into human behavior. Along the way, Haidt, a social psychologist, provides practical advice for parenting, romance, work and coping with the political and cultural divisions currently preoccupying the country. The new science he outlines mostly confirms ancient wisdom, but Haidt finds several instances where the two disagree, suggesting that the surest path to happiness is to embrace and balance both old and new thinking.""
""Sunday Times "(London)
"This unusual book sets itself apart from the self-help category with its extensive scientific references, and intelligent, neutral prose, while the author's illuminating illustration of how the human mind works is both educational and refreshing.""
""The Philadelphia Inquirer""Haidt has served up a hearty dish of conventional wisdom, accompanied b

But are these ‘truths’ really true? Today many of us seem to prefer to cling to the notion that a little bit more money, love or success will make us truly happy. Are we wrong?

In The Happiness Hypothesis, psychologist Jonathan Haidt exposes traditional wisdom to the scrutiny of modern science, delivering startling insights. We learn why constraints are good for us and choice is (sometimes) bad; where true love comes from; why conscious thought us not as important as we might think; and why we yearn to become part of something larger than ourselves.

Drawing on the rich inspiration of both philosophy and science, The Happiness Hypothesis is a remarkable, original and provocative book – ancient wisdom for our time. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

'A wonderful and nuanced book that provides deep insight into some of the most important questions in life - why are we here? What kind of life should we lead? What paths lead to happiness? From the ancient philosophers to cutting edge scientists, Haidt weaves a tapestry of the best and brightest. His highly original work on elevation and awe - two long neglected emotions - adds a new weave to the tapestry. A truly inspiring book.' David M. Buss

Every culture rests on a bedrock of folk wisdom handed down through generations. The pronouncements of philosophers are homespun by our grandmothers, and find their way into our common sense: what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Do unto others as you would have done unto you. Happiness comes from within.

But are these 'truths' really true?

'Jonathan Haidt leaves no doubt about the importance of emotion in the creation of personal meaning... This is a delightful and courageous book.' Antonio Damasio

'This fresh and original book goes to the heart of what people have found out about happiness, across cultures and times. Enjoyable, important, and eminently readable.' Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Jonathan Haidt teaches psychology at the University of Virginia. This is his first book for the general reader.

Visit the website at http://www.happinesshypothesis.com/