For all our modern so-called progress, global happiness levels have been consistently going down, especially in the richest and most developed countries.

So what does it really take to be happy?

Since 1938, Harvard scientists have been closely studying the lives of over 700 individuals to answer that very question. In this episode, two of the scientists who are now in charge of the study - Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz - discuss the results of what is known as the “world’s longest study on happiness,” and describe why they believe that meaningful relationships are the key to living a long, happy, flourishing life.

Show Notes:

Similar episodes

• David Desteno: Can Religion Make You Happier?
• The Price of the Pursuit of Pleasure: Anna Lembke and John Mark Comer
• The Power of Being Known: Curt Thompson
• The Art of Conversation: Heather Holleman

Resources mentioned this episode

• The Good Life by Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz
• Robert Waldinger’s TED Talk
• Bowling Alone by Robert Putnam
• WISER tool for relationships: Watch, Interpret, Select, Engage, and Reflect
• PDF of Lee’s Interview Notes
• Transcription Link

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