In an article published August 7, 2010 in the NY Times, regarding our shifting paradigm of happiness, it states, "the creation of complex, sophisticated relationships is a rare thing in the world." It goes on to say that "only termites, naked mole rats and certain insects like ants and bees construct social networks as complex as human beings. "
The article incidentally, was entitled, "But Will It Make You Happy?" In essence, the article covered the strategies people are employing to "buy" happiness in this economically turbulent time. "If Money Doesn't Make You Happy, Then You Aren't Spending It Right" is a forthcoming paper that will soon be published in The Journal of Consumer Psychology. It encapsulates the basic premise of the article: that we are shifting our spending to "experiences" rather than things. This includes things like vacations, sports and equipment and entertainment. We're happier spending on leisure and services that typically strengthens social bonds, which in turn helps amplify happiness. " . . . there is a strong correlation between the quality of people's relationships and their happiness; hence, anything that promotes stronger social bonds has a good chance of making us feel all warm and fuzzy."
Oh, and speaking of social bonds, the happiness boost one gets from marriage is roughly equivalent to a $20,000 increase in spending on leisure. So if you are presently single, well you may want to make a commitment to reap the psychological benefits of happiness at a cheap price.
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