How do we measure happiness? Is it through the strength of our relationships with others? Is it by the number of material possessions we have? This remarkable book, edited by Arthur A. Stone and Christopher Mackie, looks at "the current state of research and evaluates methods for the measurement of happiness." Additionally, the report "offers guidance about adopting subjective well-being measures in official government surveys to inform social and economic policies." The report is divided into six chapters, three appendices, and a set of references. These chapters include "Measuring Experienced Well-Being" and "Subjective Well-Being and Policy." It's a compelling piece, stirring meditations on an important aspect of human behavior. For those interested, a paperback version can be pre-ordered and purchased from the National Academies Press.
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