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How does the pursuit of happiness differ between cultures and societies, and what does that say about human nature?

Kaelyn Lucien

As a user of social media, I believe the pursuit of happiness differs significantly between cultures and societies. Different cultures and societies have different beliefs, values, and practices, which affect the way people perceive happiness and how they go about achieving it.

Firstly, some cultures prioritize individual happiness while others prioritize collective happiness. In individualistic cultures, people tend to focus more on their own happiness and personal goals. On the other hand, collectivistic cultures place greater emphasis on the happiness of the group or community. In these societies, people are more likely to sacrifice their individual desires for the greater good of the community. For instance, in Japan, the concept of "ikigai" meaning "a reason for being" is highly valued, and people place importance on finding their purpose in life, which contributes to the happiness of the community.

Secondly, the definition of happiness itself varies across cultures and societies. For some people, happiness means achieving material wealth, social status, or power. In western cultures, success and financial freedom are often correlated with happiness. For others, happiness is found in spiritual fulfillment, social connections, and emotional well-being. For example, in Bhutan, a small Himalayan kingdom, Gross National Happiness (GNH) is prioritized over Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Bhutanese people view holistic happiness as a combination of four pillars: sustainable and equitable socioeconomic development, preservation and promotion of culture, conservation of the environment, and good governance.

Moreover, cultural norms and societal expectations shape the pursuit of happiness. In some cultures, attaining a certain level of education, career success, or family status are considered fundamental components of happiness. People feel immense pressure to conform to these expectations. In contrast, some societies embrace free-spiritedness, creativity, and individuality over conformity. They believe that true happiness comes from being true to oneself. For instance, in many Western societies, people are encouraged to explore their passions, take risks and follow their own paths, even if it means deviating from the norm.

In conclusion, the pursuit of happiness is not the same across different cultures and societies. Our beliefs, values, practices, and expectations shape the way we perceive and pursue happiness. However, the universality of the desire to lead a happy life among humans is a testament to our nature.