#18888
Mentioned in 2 episodes
The happiness industry
How Government and Big Business Sold Us Well-Being
Book • 2015
In 'The Happiness Industry', William Davies explores how the concept of happiness has been transformed from a subjective personal experience into an objective, quantifiable phenomenon.
The book delves into the historical roots of this transformation, tracing it back to Utilitarian philosophy and the early days of American psychology.
Davies argues that this quantification of happiness has led to increased mental health problems, alienation, and manipulation by political and economic elites.
He critiques the ways in which corporate and governmental forces use surveillance, targeted advertising, and psychological profiling to maintain a docile and economically efficient population.
The book also examines the impact of these practices on workplace productivity, consumerism, and the broader social fabric.
The book delves into the historical roots of this transformation, tracing it back to Utilitarian philosophy and the early days of American psychology.
Davies argues that this quantification of happiness has led to increased mental health problems, alienation, and manipulation by political and economic elites.
He critiques the ways in which corporate and governmental forces use surveillance, targeted advertising, and psychological profiling to maintain a docile and economically efficient population.
The book also examines the impact of these practices on workplace productivity, consumerism, and the broader social fabric.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 2 episodes
Mentioned by Greg LeBlanc as a book by Will Davies, preceding Nervous States.
494. The Limits of Liberal Rationalism feat. William Davies
