Stumbling on Happiness

by Daniel Gilbert
Stumbling on Happiness cover
Good Books rating 4.31
Psychology and Human Behavior
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 3926
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2026-01-27
  • ISBN: 9780007330683
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2009-06-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

In 'Stumbling on Happiness,' Daniel Gilbert, a pre-eminent psychologist and winner of the Royal Society of Science Prize, takes readers on a journey to understand the complexities of human happiness. Through a blend of humor and scientific research, Gilbert reveals why our predictions about what will make us happy are often wildly inaccurate. /n/nThe book delves into the psychological mechanisms that shape our expectations and experiences, offering a fresh perspective on how we can better navigate life's choices. Gilbert's engaging writing style makes complex concepts accessible, providing readers with a deeper understanding of their own minds and the factors that contribute to a fulfilling life.

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.

Carriel T21 · 2019-08-20
funny 4.25

The book is witty and well-researched, offering a humorous take on how our brains fail us in remembering the past and interpreting the present. It's a fun read that provides valuable insights into human psychology.

This book is a delightful mix of humor and science, making it an enjoyable read. The author does a fantastic job of breaking down complex psychological concepts into digestible bits. It's clear that a lot of research went into this book, but it never feels overwhelming. Instead, it's engaging and thought-provoking. The author's humorous approach makes the subject matter even more appealing. It's a book that will make you laugh, think, and perhaps even see your own life in a new light. The insights shared are not just theoretical; they have practical applications that can help us make better decisions in our daily lives.

Quick quotes

    Daniel Gilbert's book Stumbling on Happiness explores how our brains fail us in remembering the past, interpreting the present,

    The book is witty, incredibly well researched, and Gilbert is (mostly) unwilling to extrapolate the massive amounts of data he compiles into proscriptive

    He pulls on research to make his case.

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.

Scott H Young · 2006-05-30
brilliant 4.50

The book is one of the best reads in months, providing a wealth of information about why we struggle to find happiness. It's a compelling exploration of human psychology that offers valuable insights.

This book is a gem. It's one of those reads that sticks with you long after you've turned the last page. The author does an excellent job of explaining complex psychological concepts in a way that's easy to understand. The book is filled with interesting research findings and thought-provoking ideas. It's not just about happiness; it's about understanding ourselves better. The author's writing style is engaging and the humor adds a nice touch. It's a book that will make you laugh, think, and perhaps even change the way you approach life. The insights shared are not just theoretical; they have practical applications that can help us make better decisions in our daily lives.

Quick quotes

    Stumbling on Happiness is one of the best books I have read in months and it provides a wealth of information about why we struggle to find happiness.

    It's a compelling exploration of human psychology that offers valuable insights.

    The author's writing style is engaging and the humor adds a nice touch.

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