Arthur Brooks - Harvard Professor & Happiness Expert | Why Everything You Think About Success Is Wrong

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References & Resources

Arthur Brooks

Harvard Professor, Social Scientist, & Happiness Expert

This episode features Arthur Brooks, a Harvard Professor and happiness expert, who discusses his work on the science of human happiness. He explores why traditional views on success might be flawed and offers insights on how to improve personal well-being and combat declining happiness in society. Brooks aims to provide actionable strategies from his research to help listeners live happier lives.

Key Topics

The Science of HappinessAddressing Declining HappinessRedefining Success for HappinessPractical Application of Happiness Research

Companies & Organizations

Harvard Kennedy School

Where Arthur Brooks serves as a professor.

Harvard Business School

Where Arthur Brooks serves as a professor.

The Atlantic

Where Arthur Brooks is a columnist.

Resources & Links

Office Hours with Arthur BrooksPodcast

Show Notes

Arthur Brooks is a social scientist, bestselling author, and public speaker renowned for his work on happiness, leadership, and the intersection of science and human flourishing. Formerly the president of the American Enterprise Institute, he now teaches at Harvard University, where he focuses on behavioral science and social well-being. Through his books, research, and talks, Brooks explores how individuals can cultivate purpose, resilience, and joy in both life and work.

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The Art and Science of Happiness Workshop

Official Website

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➡️ Office Hours Podcast

Each week on Office Hours, you’ll get a glimpse into the cutting edge research on happiness, and explore how you can use it to improve your life—and share what you learn with those you love.

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➡️ Books

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➡️ Talking Points

00:00 — Intro

01:25 — What Most People Get Wrong About Happiness

04:30 — The Reverse Bucket List Explained

09:59 — Ambition Without Attachment

14:09 — Playing “What’s My Idol?”

24:48 — Does Conquest Make You Happier?

27:39 — Intention Without Attachment

30:21 — Why Your Calling Matters

34:25 — Is Secularism Fueling Anxiety and Depression?

36:22 — Happiness vs. Meaning: What’s the Difference?

40:04 — Why Arthur Turned to Buddhism

46:54 — Redefining Intimacy

49:48 — The Happiness Paradox

56:01 — What Sabotages Your Happiness?

58:31 — A Life-Changing Idea From Arthur’s Latest Book

01:00:39 — The No.1 Lesson on Happiness for His Kids