The Happiness Hypothesis

Not sure why this one didn't grab me, but I found it just OK.

Some of his assertions about the scientific evidence backing meditation and attachment theory are questionable in my mind. From what I've read and heard elsewhere, the case is not nearly as clearcut as he makes it seem in this book.

I also feel like the “ancient wisdom” schtick is just a schtick to sell books. He pulls quotations from ancient/old texts and then talks about how they are supported by current scientific theory. The problem is that those quotations are taken out of context and although he tries to provide the broader context, he often leaves out notable elements such as superstition and other irrational claims.

I also think there are several points where one could take up serious philosophical quibbles with his argument.

In spite of these problems he makes a lot of thought-provoking arguments that are worthy of consideration if not application in one's own life. I really appreciate his support of meditation, positive psychology, and cognitive therapy. So, overall, I guess it's really a pretty interesting book... but for some reason I just did not love it.

4.5 stars.

I found very interesting the hypotheses described in this book, and will definitely study more some of the concepts that the author explained in order to improve my own “happiness level” and become more conscious of my own behavior. I fully recommend this book to anyone that wants to understand more clearly how our mind and emotions work together.