Arthur C. Brooks, an author and Harvard professor, dives into the multi-faceted nature of happiness, discussing its essential components: enjoyment, satisfaction, and meaning. He tackles the paradox of the hedonic treadmill and the fleeting joy of achieving goals versus savoring the journey itself. Brooks emphasizes the importance of purpose, self-reflection, and emotional awareness, while also exploring societal views on aging and dignity. The conversation interweaves philosophical insights with scientific perspectives, offering valuable strategies for cultivating happiness.
01:15:40
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
menu_book Books
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
insights INSIGHT
Happiness's Three Components
Happiness consists of three components: enjoyment, satisfaction, and meaning.
Social science often struggles to define happiness, but philosophy offers deeper insights.
insights INSIGHT
Enjoyment vs Pleasure
Enjoyment involves conscious memory and social elements, beyond mere pleasure.
Pleasure is more automatic and shared with other animals, while enjoyment is uniquely human.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Embrace Struggle for Satisfaction
Satisfaction derives from joy after struggle, not just the outcome itself.
Embrace struggle to enhance satisfaction and make achievements sweeter.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
The Quest to Live Forever and How It Drives Civilization
Stephen Cave
In this book, Stephen Cave delves into the human quest for immortality, categorizing the various attempts into four narratives: staying alive, resurrection, soul, and legacy. He explores how these narratives have shaped human history, influencing art, religion, and civilization. Cave argues that the pursuit of immortality is a foundational aspect of human achievement but also critiques the idea, suggesting that true immortality would be devoid of meaning and potentially destructive. The book concludes by offering a positive vision of life without immortal aspirations, drawing on philosophical and historical examples such as the Epic of Gilgamesh and the Stoics[1][3][5].
From Strength to Strength
Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life
Arthur C Brooks
In 'From Strength to Strength', Arthur C. Brooks addresses the inevitable decline in abilities that comes with aging and provides a practical guide on how to transform this period into an opportunity for growth. Drawing on social science, philosophy, biography, theology, and eastern wisdom, as well as interviews with everyday men and women, Brooks advocates for refocusing on priorities such as deep wisdom, detachment from empty rewards, connection and service to others, and spiritual progress. He argues that by adapting our expectations and focusing on these areas, we can achieve increased happiness and purpose in our later years.
Build the Life You Want
The Art and Science of Getting Happier
Arthur C Brooks
Oprah Winfrey
In 'Build the Life You Want,' Arthur C. Brooks and Oprah Winfrey offer a research-based approach to improving one's life by focusing on emotional self-management. The book emphasizes building the four pillars of happiness: family, friendship, work, and faith. It provides practical, science-backed strategies to manage emotions, turn challenges into opportunities, and find inner peace. The authors share their own experiences and those of others who have found joy despite hardships, highlighting the importance of enjoyment, satisfaction, and purpose in achieving a happier life.
From Strength to Strength
Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life
Arthur C Brooks
In 'From Strength to Strength', Arthur C. Brooks addresses the inevitable decline in abilities that comes with aging and provides a practical guide on how to transform this period into an opportunity for growth. Drawing on social science, philosophy, biography, theology, and eastern wisdom, as well as interviews with everyday men and women, Brooks advocates for refocusing on priorities such as deep wisdom, detachment from empty rewards, connection and service to others, and spiritual progress. He argues that by adapting our expectations and focusing on these areas, we can achieve increased happiness and purpose in our later years.
Love Your Enemies
How Decent People Can Save America from the Culture of Contempt
Arthur C Brooks
In 'Love Your Enemies,' Arthur C. Brooks argues that the current culture of contempt in America, fueled by divisive politics and social media, is not a path to lasting success. Instead, he proposes a strategy based on bridging divides and mending relationships. Brooks combines behavioral research, ancient wisdom, and his experience leading a top policy think tank to offer unconventional prescriptions for bringing America together. He emphasizes that disagreement is essential for excellence and that civility and tolerance are insufficient goals; what matters most is how we choose to act towards those we disagree with.
Arthur C. Brooks is an author and academic, he has written 13 books and is a columnist for the Atlantic with 'How to Build a Life'
Arthur leads this discussion exploring the concept of happiness from interdisciplinary perspectives, bridging philosophy, neuroscience, and behavioural science. Happiness is defined through the components of enjoyment, satisfaction, and meaning. Arthur address the dilemma of constantly chasing goals and the paradox of the hedonic treadmill.
Lives Well Lived 
