Psy 225 - Happiness

Happiness Paper

Joy Thornton

PSY225

November 12, 2018

Nino Kakulia

        The Bhutanese people happiness is not related to material possessions. Instead of focusing on material things, they feel that happiness is a state of contentment. They gain this state of contentment by controlling their state of mind and managing emotions. In America, we focus on what we have, our material possessions as a direct reflection of our happiness. We think if we have more, we will be happier. The people of Bhutan believe the exact opposite. They believe that the more you have, the more you want, therefore, never being able to find that inner peace or happiness.

        The people of Bhutan believe that happiness is based on four pillars. These pillars are consolation of the environment, good government, the preservation of culture, and socioeconomic development. They believe that taking care of your environment is vital to happiness because if you live in a polluted area, you could not possibly be happy. They believe that as long as you have a roof over your head, you can be happy. They do not need a mansion or luxury items to be happy. They also feel that being one with, and respecting, your culture is vital to happiness. Finally, they feel that as long as you have food to eat, you should be happy. The Bhutanese people feel that happiness is a simple emotion to achieve. They simply do not need a lot to be happy, and understand that happiness comes from within.

        One part of the video I found meaningful was when one lady asked how can you possibly measure happiness. It is a transient thing. What makes one person happy might not make the next person happy. I think this is important to remember, especially in the age of social media. Just because this one woman on Instagram likes a type of drink and thinks it is the best thing ever does not mean I will. Western culture focuses so much on outward appearances and tangible items to gauge our happiness.