Clearer Thinking with Spencer Greenberg Happiness and Hedonic Adaptation (with Rob Smith)
Jan 27, 2021
In this engaging discussion, Rob Smith, an Assistant Professor of Marketing at Tilburg University, dives into the intriguing concept of hedonic adaptation, revealing why our pleasures often diminish over time. He explores the psychology behind deprivation, narcissism, and cult dynamics, shedding light on how insecurity can lead to manipulative environments. The conversation also touches on the complexities of pursuing long-term happiness versus short-term gains and the importance of gratitude and personal growth in fostering lasting fulfillment.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Hedonic Adaptation
- People underestimate how quickly they adapt to new things, leading to poor decisions.
- This "hedonic adaptation" means things bring less joy the more we experience them.
Shopping Better
- Consider satiation when making decisions, especially those involving happiness.
- Account for how much joy will diminish over time versus the cost.
Satiation and Novelty
- We adapt slower to variable, surprising things.
- Novelty and experiences offer more lasting hedonic value compared to static material possessions.