Happiness

By Matthieu Ricard,

Book cover of Happiness: A Guide to Developing Life's Most Important Skill

Book description

Combining science and spirit, a cell biologist turned Buddhist monk blends new scientific research with traditional Western philosophy to reveal how readily attainable happiness is.

Shepherd is reader supported. When you buy books, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Why read it?

2 authors picked Happiness as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I like and dislike this book! Ricard is a scientist and a Buddhist monk, and is reported to be the happiest man on earth. I know, respect, and like Ricard, and this book harkens back to the Stoics by suggesting that moderation is the key to happiness. My research says yes and no to this.  Ricard is correct that spending too much time worrying about the past or future will drag down one's happiness. My research, and that of many others, have shown the positive effect of meditation on happiness and here Ricard is masterful in explaining how and why…

This book describes that all human beings strive to achieve perfect authentic happiness directly or indirectly. True happiness must be cultivated by the transformation of oneself. True joy is what we need and not passing excitement. The book speaks to us about creating a contemplative and introspective mind conducive to our wellbeing and inner peace. If our mind can manage its thoughts, perceptions, and emotions, then it can change our moods and transform us forever. Strong Belief in the reality of the ego leads to human pain. Ignorance and mental toxins are the causes of unhappiness that must be eliminated…

From Tushar's list on well-being and self-knowledge.

Want books like Happiness?

Our community of 10,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Happiness.

Browse books like Happiness

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in Buddhism, happiness, and Tibetan Buddhism?

10,000+ authors have recommended their favorite books and what they love about them. Browse their picks for the best books about Buddhism, happiness, and Tibetan Buddhism.

Buddhism Explore 270 books about Buddhism
Happiness Explore 311 books about happiness
Tibetan Buddhism Explore 21 books about Tibetan Buddhism