The Psychology of Happiness in the Modern World

A Social Psychological Approach

James B. Allen
Springer
400 pages
ISBN-13: 978-0826132826
July 2017

Written in a conversational style yet empirically grounded, this book reviews what we know about the science of happiness. It is the first text to closely examine the social psychological processes as well as individualistic approaches that affect happiness. It explores how our social, cultural, and economic environment, the personal choices we make, and our evolutionary heritage shape our happiness. Topics that are inherently interesting to students, such as how income, unemployment, marriage, children, relationships, health, work, religion, and economic growth affect happiness, are reviewed. Research from psychology, economics, and sociology is examined providing an interdisciplinary perspective of this fascinating field. Social issues such as income inequality and the effects of advertising, materialism, and competition are also explored.