Ashley Frawley: the Dangers of Happiness

We spoke to professor Ashley Frawley, a sociology professor at Swansea University, on the perils of our constant pursuit of happiness. Dr. Frawley lectures on the sociology of happiness and mental health and has been. critical of the ‘self-help’ movement. We discussed how we should conceptualise happiness, and how we can explain the rising prevalence of happiness as a subject of public policy.
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[@DouwedeJong]

I truly enjoyed Dr. Frawley's paper on Mindfulness. Although the paper touches on the origins of this silliness it does not spell out the obvious, and that is that 'mindfulness' and 'happiness' refers to the phantom that people develop in the absence of culture. Alternatively you can listen to Bach, look at a sculpture from Bernini, go to a Hirst exhibition, enjoy the poetry of Elliot, study the works of Wittgenstein, play with a Turing machines, read a paper or book, look at the stars, do synchronized dancing, learn what the different disciplines of science can tell us or go for long cycle ride. Unfortunately sports, gambling, reality TV, games, internet, news and social media all fight for our attention while they create the illusion of agency. We think we participate using a tweet, playing Fortnite with 40 others, leaving a comment on YT or supporting our football team, but it is a phantom (an illusion of control). These things do not offer the feedback loop that we expect from cultural engagement (aesthetics, sense of wonder, creative need, displeasure, etc.), so people gravitate to absurdities like mindfulness and happiness.

[@boorhaave5880]

Which paper are you referring to?

[@DouwedeJong]

@Xander Niks motivation is an island in the ocean of fear.
Even the most basic human brain have ideas, customs, and social behavior. Culture and the human intellect is not exclusive, it is there for every fearless and curious mind.

[@DarkMatterZombies]

Thank you, I am looking forward to reading and listening to more from Ashley. Ashley Frawely preparing us all for what is coming.