Stumbling on Happiness

by Daniel Gilbert
Stumbling on Happiness cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Psychology and Human Behavior
Technical
  • ID: 3926
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-20
  • ISBN: 9780007330683
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2009-06-01
  • Reviews: 3

In this fascinating and often hilarious work, psychologist Daniel Gilbert explores the complexities of human happiness. He argues that our imagination and perception of the future often lead us astray, causing us to make decisions that don't ultimately bring us the happiness we seek. Gilbert delves into the psychology of decision-making, offering insights into why we are so poor at predicting what will make us happy. With a mix of scientific research and engaging storytelling, he challenges readers to rethink their approach to happiness and fulfillment. This book is both an entertaining read and a thought-provoking exploration of human behavior.

Reviews
Alice Osborn · Alice Osborn · 2025-10-20
insightful 4.50

The book effectively translates complex psychology into practical insights for everyday life. It is both engaging and accessible.

Alice Osborn highlights how 'Stumbling on Happiness' masterfully breaks down intricate psychological concepts into digestible and practical advice. She appreciates the author's ability to make the subject matter relatable and enjoyable for readers without a background in psychology. The book is not just informative but also entertaining, making it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in understanding human behavior and happiness.

Quick quotes

    Stumbling on Happiness by Daniel Gilbert does a great job exemplifying what it looks like to distill psychology into a practical layperson's science.

    Gilbert's witty and engaging style makes the book a pleasure to read.

    The book provides valuable insights into why we often mispredict what will make us happy.

Sharon Martin Counseling · 2012-10-20
intriguing 4.00

The book is intriguing and well-researched, offering a unique perspective on human happiness. It challenges common misconceptions about what brings joy.

The reviewer from Sharon Martin Counseling finds 'Stumbling on Happiness' to be a fascinating exploration of why we often get it wrong when predicting what will make us happy. They appreciate the extensive research Dr. Gilbert uses to support his arguments, making the book both thought-provoking and enlightening. The reviewer also notes that the book is an easy and enjoyable read, despite tackling complex topics.

Quick quotes

    It was a very interesting read. Dr. Gilbert explores why we wrongly predict what will make us happy.

    He pulls on research to make his case, which adds credibility to his arguments.

    The book is both thought-provoking and enlightening.

The New York Times · 2006-05-07
compelling 4.50

The book presents a compelling argument about the human tendency to misjudge our future happiness. It is both humorous and insightful.

The New York Times reviewer praises 'Stumbling on Happiness' for its humorous and insightful take on why humans are so often wrong about what will make them happy. They appreciate the author's ability to blend scientific research with a engaging narrative, making the book both entertaining and educational. The reviewer also notes that the book's arguments are well-supported and thoughtfully presented, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in psychology and human behavior.

Quick quotes

    Gilbert has a serious argument to make about why human beings are forever wrongly predicting what will make them happy.

    The book is both humorous and insightful, making it an enjoyable read.

    Gilbert's arguments are well-supported and thoughtfully presented.

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