On page 10 in your textbook it states: “You cannot inhale, drink, or smoke happiness. You cannot buy it, wear it, drive it, swallow it, inject it, or travel to it.” But let’s pretend for a moment that you could swallow something, such as a pill, that would make you INDEFINITELY happy. Assuming there is only one side effect—the loss of other emotions such as surprise, disgust, anger, fear, and sadness—would you do it? Provide a detailed explanation of why or why not.
Take Action
Scientific research on happiness has made a clear association between a sense of belonging and the experience of happiness. Ask at least two people about their viewpoint on how social media such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or even texting can contribute to or detract from a genuine sense of connection and belonging. Share their responses, and your analysis of their contributions.
Ask at least two friends, co-workers, or acquaintances to (a) contemplate ways of generating authentic happiness on an individual level, and (b) discuss how cultivating happiness on an individual level could contribute to the quality of society. Share their responses, and your analysis of their contributions.
