Monday, January 27, 2014

Do we fear our own happiness?

We may feel jealous about others' happiness. But, do we fear our own happiness? Yes, say some recent studies. Here is the link to a report on that, which appeared first in Scientific American. It also features a quiz to measure individual's fear. A single quiz may not fit all heads. Still, one shot at it without trying to be too clever may not disappoint.

The main contention of the studies is that there is a co-relation between fear of happiness and mental illness. It does not, however, ignore the conditioning culture, religious beliefs or philosophical attitudes may have on groups and individuals. I would submit that age, as it advances, inhibits the capacity to break out into seamless joy. We are used to calling it 'wisdom'! May be, that too is a sign of mental illness!

The link is: http://www.salon.com/2014/01/27/are_you_afraid_of_happiness_take_the_quiz_partner/?source=newsletter

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