Happiness

Question 1

Satisfaction vs. expectations

Answer 1

“We do not become satisfied by leading a peaceful and prosperous existence. Rather, we become satisfied when reality matches our expectations. The bad news is that as conditions improve, expectations balloon.”

Question 2

Natural selection

Answer 2

For countless generations our biochemical system adapted to increasing our chances of survival and reproduction, not our happiness

Question 3

Epicurus

Answer 3

“When Epicurus defined happiness as the supreme good, he warned his disciples that it is hard work to be happy. Material achievements alone will not satisfy us for long. Indeed, the blind pursuit of money, fame and pleasure will only make us miserable. Epicurus recommended, for example, to eat and drink in moderation, and to curb one’s sexual appetites. In the long run, a deep friendship will make us more content than a frenzied orgy.

Question 4

The pursuit of happiness

Answer 4

“If I identify happiness with fleeting pleasant sensations, and crave to experience more and more of them, I have no choice but to pursue them constantly.”