The Origins of Happiness

The most significant contribution of The Origins of Happiness lies in its integrated approach to life satisfaction over the life cycle. The authors combine cohort studies, longitudinal panels, and cross-section surveys to provide fuller perspectives. No one else has done this in such a systematic way. -John F. Helliwell, University of British Columbia Rooted in the best-available evidence for each stage in life, The Origins of Happiness provides an ambitious and comprehensive analysis of what leads to a satisfying life, from childhood to old age. -Alan Krueger, Princeton University This book-written by several masters in the field-brings our knowledge of well-being to a new level. It demonstrates how experiences and emotions in the early years link to adult outcomes, and highlights the importance of parental well-being to that of children. The authors provide new metrics for designing and assessing policies that can affect the welfare of millions of people throughout the course of their lives. This work is a must-read for the academic, policymaker, and informed citizen alike. -Carol Graham, author of Happiness for All? Unequal Hopes and Lives in Pursuit of the American Dream The Origins of Happiness is a wonderful book. It presents a new look at what causes human well-being, and carefully analyzes the policies and programs that can enhance it. -Ed Diener, coauthor of Happiness: Unlocking the Mysteries of Psychological Wealth If policymakers want to improve lives, it is important to understand how people feel-and why. This book charts new territory, providing the first map of the long-term drivers of people's happiness. Along the way, it highlights both familiar and more groundbreaking routes to progress. There are helpful signposts in here for all those seeking different and better paths to advance people's well-being. -Martine Durand, chief statistician and director of statistics of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development