The Happiness Industry
How the Government and Big Business Sold us Well-Being
by:
William Davies
in:
Social Theory
Summary:
The book critically examines the intersection of psychology, economics, and technology in the pursuit of happiness, arguing that governments and corporations have co-opted the concept of well-being to serve their own interests. It explores the ways in which our emotions are quantified and manipulated to align with market and political objectives, often at the expense of genuine personal fulfillment.
Key points:
1. Happiness as a Product: Davies suggests that happiness is now a product used by governments and corporations to boost productivity and sales, using psychology and data to influence people's feelings.
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