The Pursuit of Happiness by Darrin M. McMahon

This is not a mere pleasurable feeling, a fleeting emotion, or a mood, but an optimal state of being.” Further, he declares happiness to be “a way of interpreting the world, since while it may be difficult to change the world, it is always possible to change the way we look at it” ( Happiness: A Guide to Developing Life’s Most Important Skill). Former cellular geneticist Matthieu Ricard describes it as “a deep sense of flourishing that arises from an exceptionally healthy mind. But as we’ll see, a source of advice and wisdom that predates all of these studies corroborates much of what we have subsequently learned.įirst, what is happiness? We can’t pursue something if we don’t know what we’re seeking. In recent years there has been an upsurge of interest in academic circles and in scientific approaches to the subject. Does happiness depend on circumstances, or can we achieve it despite living under trying conditions?įor centuries, philosophers, psychologists and academics have sought to define this fundamental emotion, told us how best to achieve it, and argued over its causes and even the validity of pursuing it. But are we satisfied with these occasional glimpses? What of the majority of our lives? Can we honestly say we are happy most of the time? If not, we might want to consider our approach to the elusive goal. We can all think of circumstances and situations that make us happy: enjoying a fine meal with friends our team winning a major tournament getting a promotion at work. Although history reveals different perspectives on the subject, happiness is now generally regarded as a basic human right, and that everyone will strive to achieve it seems self-evident. The final four words are also the title of a number of novels, nonfiction books, songs, TV programs and films. “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” is a phrase found in the American Declaration of Independence.

The Pursuit of Happiness by Darrin M. McMahon