Happiness isn’t the goal
The Gray Area with Sean Illing
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Happiness is Not the Goal of Evolution
Human brains are not wired primarily for happiness; rather, they evolved to enhance survival and reproduction. Happiness serves as a temporary feedback mechanism, signaling that we are on the right path by rewarding behaviors like love, status, and nourishment. However, this joy is short-lived, leading to the concept of the hedonic treadmill where individuals continuously chase new experiences and accomplishments. Evolution does not favor prolonged contentment but rather encourages ongoing effort and accumulation to secure survival.
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