Stumbling on Happiness

by Daniel Gilbert
Stumbling on Happiness cover
Good Books rating 4.38
Psychology and Human Behavior
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 3926
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2025-11-15
  • ISBN: 9780007330683
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2009-06-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

In 'Stumbling on Happiness,' renowned psychologist Daniel Gilbert delves into the intriguing question of why we often fail to predict what will make us happy. This engaging and often humorous work, which won the Royal Society of Science Prize in 2007, combines scientific research with relatable anecdotes to reveal the surprising ways our minds misjudge our future happiness. Gilbert's accessible writing style makes complex psychological concepts easy to understand, offering readers a fresh perspective on the pursuit of joy. Through a series of fascinating experiments and real-life examples, Gilbert illustrates how our brains are wired to make inaccurate predictions about our future happiness. He explores the role of imagination in shaping our expectations and the ways in which our current emotions influence our perceptions of the future. This book is not just a scientific exploration but also a practical guide, providing insights into how we can make better decisions to enhance our well-being.

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.

Goodreads · 2006-05-02
brilliant 4.50

The book is brilliant, witty, and accessible, describing the foibles of imagination and illusions of foresight.

This Goodreads review praises Daniel Gilbert's ability to make complex psychological concepts understandable and entertaining. The reviewer finds the book brilliant and witty, appreciating Gilbert's exploration of why people often mispredict what will make them happy. The accessible writing style makes it a compelling read for anyone interested in understanding human behavior and the pursuit of happiness.

Quick quotes

    In this brilliant, witty, and accessible book, renowned Harvard psychologist Daniel Gilbert describes the foibles of imagination and illusions of foresight.

    Gilbert's writing style is engaging and thought-provoking.

    The book provides valuable insights into human behavior and the pursuit of happiness.

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