Summary:
The book argues against the cultural obsession with happiness, positing that melancholy is essential for a full, creative life. It suggests that embracing sadness can lead to deeper self-understanding and the creation of more profound art and literature.
Key points:
1. Happiness Culture Critique: Wilson thinks society's focus on happiness is excessive and ignores the importance of other emotions, leading to a shallow life and poor handling of complex feelings.
Books similar to "Against Happiness":
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How to Be an Epicurean
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Battle Cry
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Cry Like a Man
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The Geography of Bliss
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Consolations - Revised edition
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Authentic Happiness
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The Conquest of Happiness
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I'm Fine...And Other Lies
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First, We Make the Beast Beautiful
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