Do you really know? Does money really make us happy?
Sep 11, 2025
The podcast explores the complex relationship between money and happiness. A study reveals that wealth boosts life satisfaction, but only up to a point. Interestingly, in wealthy nations, happiness often ties more closely to health, home ownership, and fulfilling jobs rather than just financial security. The conversation delves into historical and philosophical views, questioning if money is still a key player in achieving true fulfillment.
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Wealth Helps, But Not Always Most Important
- Wealth correlates with higher average happiness across countries, but only up to a point.
- Non-financial factors like health, children's education and safety often matter more than money.
Origins Of The Saying
- The saying 'money can't buy happiness' traces to long-standing philosophical and religious ideas.
- Thinkers like Rousseau and biblical teachings promoted the view that emotional fulfilment outlives material wealth.
Focus Policy On Mental Health
- Prioritise mental-health policy as a route to reducing misery rather than assuming wealth alone will deliver wellbeing.
- Focus public efforts on treating depression and anxiety to cut overall misery significantly.
