The Science of Happiness: The six principles of a happy life and the seven strategies for achieving it

by Brendan Kelly, Sam O'Mahony (Reading)

The Science of Happiness is a relatively new area of scientific research and in this timely audiobook, leading psychiatrist Professor Brendan Kelly sifts through the most up-to-date findings to arrive at a comprehensive set of principles and strategies that are scientifically proven to increase happiness levels.

Firstly, Professor Kelly examines the global research that reveals current trends in happiness: for example, those with right-wing political views are happier than those on the left, having a baby increases your happiness levels for two years, 47 is the age of greatest unhappiness and Finland is the happiest country.

He then explains the six over-arching principles of a happy life and seven strategies for achieving it – without having to switch political allegiance or move to Finland. Although happiness cannot be purposely built, we can create the circumstances in which happiness is more likely to flourish and so increase our well-being. To this end, the various strategies outlined in this audiobook combine research evidence with scientific, psychological and even spiritual advice in order to chart a happier path through our complex world.

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help, Science, Psychology, Personal Development

Audio CD

Published June 15, 2021

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too repetitive. Needed a lot more editing. With huge pruning shears. The summary at the end was probably all that need publishing- the rest was just padding.

[Ita · Rating 3 out of 5]

Two and a half stars for effort and a lovely accent. I listened to this audiobook to fill in my commute time while waiting for my reservations. It was a pleasant enough book but no new ideas.

[Iola Shaw · Rating 3 out of 5]

An audio book that shows the impact of the narration is vital - enjoyable voice and tone really helps for me. i will need a high speed listen to consolidate. as a self help junky it's possible that I could have sidestepped my addition if I'd started here. The 6 key principles at one level seem "well no shit sherlock" but if that were truly the case I'd have internalised them and be living it not needed to have a refresher on it.
If you have avoided the self help quagmire and would like to do so but feel you could do with a bit of guidance on feeling a bit more sanguine I'd recommend this.

[Isabella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Last book of 2023. Listened to this on audio book. It could have been a little more concise. Not necessarily any new information but reinforced previous ideas. I really liked the empirical evidence to support different ideas and also his own personal experiences. This made it more alive. As someone who is pretty happy in life it reinforced things I should continue doing, eg have balance in life, sleep well, eat well and do some exercise. Have attachments with people I trust, have faith in something, spend time in nature etc. A good book.

[Veeramani · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the way the book is written and summarized with great depth and analysis.
The author takes us across multiple practical domains and rationalizes how it is linked to happiness. It touches the brought up, country, political stand , U model for happiness etc....

I liked the chapter on getting lost and I was able to connect myself to a few of the visits that I have made to Cambodia , Netherlands and Italy.
It is a good read .. This book talks about the psychological connection to happiness rather than the science aspects !!

[Pat Morris-jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a four and a half book. It’s informative but not tedious. Funny yet serious. I have listened to both his books on audiobook ( lovely Irish accent on narrator) and think that he maybe best as audiobook. He certainly is better on his subject than when he did the semi autobiography combined with research thrown in ( the doctor that sat for a year). Interesting.

[Sharyn Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

I the thick of lockdown I enjoyed this book.
I liked Brendan’s perspective on happiness research and mental health. I also gained a few gems that had not been covered in Stefan Klein’s books.
Reading it made me feel happier.

[Deanne Davies · Rating 4 out of 5]

More wellbeing than happiness. A reminder of what works with some insights such as the purpose of dreaming. Also interesting that globally we aren't as different as we believe. Finland is the happiest country on earth. Love to do a PHD there, you get to wield a sword when graduating!

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Audiobook version. Probably 3.5 stars. Reasonable suggestions but lacked science about what sort of diet is best just discussed NHS recommendations which are in my opinion outdated. Also bit too much of the old religion creeping in there when really should have discussed living to one’s values.

[Emily-Jane · Rating 2 out of 5]

I enjoyed the up to date references and empirical evidence presented in most of the chapters but the entire last chapter on travelling was all anecdotal evidence. This is not a vibe.

[Simona · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book! Full of scientific studies and with a positive vibe

[Julie-Anne Borgias · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very relaxed read with some useful suggestions and interesting ideas.

[Ozana · Rating 2 out of 5]

Everything that came before the final chapter is just a constant repetition of the same idea to meet a page quota.

[Shane O'Sullivan · Rating 3 out of 5]

lacks the scientific approach stated in the title

[Staci · Rating 3 out of 5]

An enjoyable read at times, but incredibly repetitive. The science is interesting and Kelly’s travel stories in the last chapter are a delight to read.