The book is a dialogue between ancient truths and modern scientific research, where readers are invited to rediscover the true meaning of life.
Happiness, although a universal goal, is often discussed as an emotional, vague concept that is more about personal experience. In The adaptation of Happiness, author Jonathan Haidt approached the topic in a special way as he sought ancient truths that had been repeated through time culture, to contemplate and verify with the lens of modern science.
The book discusses the 10 Best Ideas perceptions, words or philosophies that have appeared from India to ancient Greece, from Buddha to Benjamin Franklin... With each idea, Haidt both shows respect for ancient intelligence and maintains the spirit of reasoning of a scientist: Is this still true and appropriate in todays context?
Author Jonathan Haidt does not encourage a lifestyle based on external factors, but he also disagrees with the statement: Just change your mindset, life will change. From ancient times, many large ideological systems have encouraged people to "finding happiness from within". However, the author believes that this belief, if absolutely hoa, can become a pressure.
Under the light of experiential psychology, author Jonathan Haidt emphasizes that happiness does not only depend on how we think, but is also influenced by social context, relationships, economic circumstances, physical health, etc.
I would like to suggest that the happy assumption can be expanded now into a negative-positive formula: Happiness comes from within, and happiness also comes from within Donald Haidt affirmed.
Acts of Happiness is not a self-reliant handbook to encourage positive thinking at all costs, nor is it an empty philosophical work. This is a symphony between ancient intelligence and modern science, between the great influence of the East-West ideology flows.
Jonathan Haidt wrote this book as a researcher, but also as a student exploring the path in the forest of philosophy of life. He gave books to those who are skeptical but still open those who are not satisfied with empty advice, but still believe in the ability to master life with deeper understanding.
Jonathan Haidt is a reserve professor of psychology at the University of Virginia. He is currently a social psychology expert at Stern Business School, New York University.
His research revolves around the emotional foundation of rotation and the ways rotation changes across cultures, including liberalism and conservatism.
