The Evolution of Happiness: Insights from 'Sapiens'

Happiness is a concept we all chase but rarely take the time to truly understand. In our busy lives, especially within the corporate world, we’re constantly running after success, wealth, and comfort. But have you ever stopped and wondered if all this hustle is making you happy?

This question has been with me for a long time & while reading Yuval Noah Harari’s book, "Sapiens." Harari doesn't just view history through the typical lens of events and dates; he delves deep into how our pursuit of happiness has evolved from our days as hunter-gatherers to the modern era. This fascinating journey compelled me to rethink much of what we assume about happiness.

Today, I want to share some insights from one of the most thought-provoking chapters in "Sapiens." We will explore how our understanding of happiness has changed over time and what valuable lessons we can draw from it.

Understanding Happiness: A Historical Perspective

Happiness is not an invention. Early human societies, though living with fewer material possessions and simpler lifestyles, experienced forms of happiness deeply connected to their environments and social structures.

Hunter-Gatherer Era: These societies had strong social bonds and a close relationship with nature, which contributed to their sense of contentment. People lived in small, tight-knit groups that followed the rhythms of nature. Their lives focused on daily survival, but this didn't mean they were miserable. Quite the opposite—they had rich social interactions, sharing resources and responsibilities equally among the group. This created a deep sense of belonging and purpose, significantly contributing to their happiness.

Agricultural Revolution: This marked a significant shift. Settling down led to population growth, surplus production, and eventually social hierarchies. While it brought stability, it also introduced new stresses and inequalities. The ability to produce surplus led to the accumulation of wealth and the emergence of social hierarchies. This created stress and inequality, as not everyone shared equally in the community’s resources.

Industrial Revolution: It brought unprecedented economic growth and improved living standards but also disrupted traditional lifestyles, leading to urbanization and a loss of community ties. The shift from rural to urban living meant people were uprooted from their communities and moved into crowded cities, often leading to a breakdown of social structures and community bonds, which are essential for emotional well-being.

Modern Society and Happiness

Today, despite technological comforts and wealth, many people struggle with anxiety, depression, and a sense of unfulfillment. Harari argues that our modern lifestyle often disconnects us from fundamental aspects of happiness.

Paradox of Modern Comfort: We enjoy comforts and conveniences that previous generations could only dream of. Yet, despite these advancements, many people experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Harari suggests that our relentless pursuit of material success and technological progress has led us to neglect fundamental aspects of happiness—meaningful relationships, a sense of purpose, and a connection to our community and nature.

Biological and Psychological Dimensions of Happiness

Biological Factors: Our genetic makeup & brain chemistry play crucial roles in our baseline levels of happiness. Some people are naturally predisposed to feel happier than others.

For instance, studies on identical twins reared apart have shown that genetics can account for about 50% of the variation in happiness levels among individuals. Brain chemistry also plays a vital role; neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins are key players in how we experience joy and pleasure.

An anecdote worth mentioning is the case of Phineas Gage, a railroad worker who survived a severe brain injury in the 19th century. His personality and emotional state changed drastically after the accident, highlighting the impact of brain structure on mood and behavior.

Link - Concurrent psychiatric comorbidity and multimorbidity in a community study: gender differences and quality of life - PubMed (nih.gov)

Psychological Insights: Beyond biology, psychological factors such as personal relationships, a sense of purpose, and community connections significantly influence our happiness. Harari emphasizes that human beings are inherently social creatures. For example, the Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running studies on happiness, found that close relationships, more than money or fame, are what keep people happy throughout their lives.

Our relationships provide emotional support and a sense of belonging, essential for our well-being. Consider the story of Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor who found that having a purpose—his desire to reunite with his family and continue his work as a psychologist was critical to his survival and mental resilience during the most harrowing times.

Link - Over nearly 80 years, Harvard study has been showing how to live a healthy and happy life — Harvard Gazette

My article on (4) Finding Purpose and Meaning in Midlife: Lessons from Viktor Frankl's Classic Book | LinkedIn

Takeaways for Living in a large city

Living in a large city presents unique challenges & opportunities for happiness, especial if youre a migrant. Here are some practical takeaways to consider:

1. Prioritize Relationships: Make time for face-to-face interactions with family and friends. Build and nurture a support network to foster a sense of belonging and emotional well-being.
2. Find Your Purpose: Engage in activities that give your life meaning. Whether it’s your job, hobbies, or volunteering, having a sense of purpose can significantly enhance your happiness.
3. Balance Technology Use: While technology can improve our lives, it’s important to set boundaries. Take regular breaks from screens and social media to reduce stress and anxiety.
4. Connect with Nature: Even in a city, find ways to connect with nature. Visit parks, take walks, or bring plants into your living space to benefit from nature’s calming effects.
5. Embrace Community: Get involved in your local community. Participate in events, join clubs, or volunteer. Building connections within your community can create a support system and a sense of belonging.
6. Mindful Living: Practice mindfulness and meditation to stay grounded and present. These practices can help manage stress and improve your overall well-being.

Quotes and Key Takeaways

Here are some powerful quotes and takeaways from the chapter on happiness in "Sapiens":

• "Happiness does not really depend on objective conditions of either wealth, health, or even community. Rather, it depends on the correlation between objective conditions and subjective expectations."
• "The most important finding of all is that happiness is not the surplus of pleasant over unpleasant moments. Rather, happiness consists in seeing one's life in its entirety as meaningful and worthwhile."

In the end

The exploration of happiness in "Sapiens" provides a profound reflection on what truly makes us happy. It challenges us to look beyond material wealth & consider the deeper, often overlooked aspects of our lives. As finance professionals and general readers, it's essential to balance our pursuit of success with the timeless quest for genuine happiness.

Reflect on your own life: Are you truly happy? What aspects of your life contribute most to your sense of well-being? Harari's insights might just inspire you to seek a more balanced and fulfilling path.