DỊCH HOÀN THIỆN ĐỀ THI IELTS READING VÀ GIẢI THÍCH ĐÁP ÁN
Introduction
Wouldn’t it be amazing if there was a science that could measure happiness? Imagine governments being able to secure happiness for society. Well, this is the belief of many people today, and it all goes back to the ideas of economist Richard Layard and positive psychology. In this book review, we will dive into “The Happiness Industry: How the Government and Big Business Sold Us Well-Being” by William Davies.
Book Summary
“The Happiness Industry” explores the concept of happiness as the ultimate goal and the purpose of government. According to Layard and positive psychology advocates, the government should promote collective well-being. They argue that positive psychology, a science that identifies what makes people happy and measures their happiness, can show the way to achieve this goal. By equipping governments with this science, happiness can be secured in society like never before.
Critique of Positive Psychology
While the idea of promoting happiness sounds appealing, it is a simplistic and naive way of thinking. It overlooks the vast philosophical literature that questions and explores the meaning and value of happiness. Philosopher Jeremy Bentham, who heavily influenced positive psychology, believed that human good consists of pleasure and the absence of pain. This reductionist view disregards other aspects of human happiness that thinkers throughout the ages have contemplated.
Bentham’s Influence
Bentham’s impact extends beyond philosophy. He had innovative ideas concerning technology, security, and preservation. He suggested linking government departments through “conversation tubes” and proposed a printing device that produced unforgeable banknotes. He also designed a method for the preservation of food. Moreover, his Panopticon prison design, intended for solitary confinement while being under constant surveillance, almost became a reality.
The Science of Happiness
Bentham was also a pioneer of the “science of happiness.” He proposed quantifying happiness through the measurement of pulse rate or by using money as the standard for quantification. This close association between money and inner experience set the stage for the entanglement of psychological research and capitalism, shaping the business practices of the twentieth century.
The Impact of Positive Psychology
“The Happiness Industry” delves into how the science of happiness has become integrated with capitalism. It explores how economic problems are being redefined and treated as psychological maladies. The book also discusses the relationship between psychology and economics, shedding light on the reductive model of behaviorism and its widespread application.
Conclusion
While the pursuit of happiness may seem desirable, the belief that governments should be responsible for promoting happiness threatens human freedom. The book raises thought-provoking questions about the role of governments, the limitations of positive psychology, and the complexity of human happiness. It challenges us to think critically about the intersection of psychology, economics, and personal well-being.
So, if you’re curious about the intersection of happiness, government, and big business, “The Happiness Industry” is a must-read book that will challenge your perspectives and make you reflect on the pursuit of happiness.
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