Why are Americans so depressed

Author: Eastbrook
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-08-01
Features: Why are wealthy Americans lacking happiness? The author attempts to critique this "paradox of progress" through over 30 years of research and analysis. He argues that the social and life progress in America (including Western countries) has changed dramatically, yet most Americans today do not feel happier than their predecessors, and the problem lies in their own social positioning and perception of life. The book is divided into three parts to elaborate the author's views: an analysis of contemporary material life, an investigation of the many dissatisfied individuals, and a prescription for curing this social ailment.
In response to the claim that "the proportion of happy people has remained stagnant for 50 years, while the number of depression patients has increased ninefold," the book presents extensive survey data to prove that, objectively speaking, almost every modern American lives better than their parents, despite the lingering destructive impact of 9/11 on American society. The author believes that the lack of increased happiness among Americans may reflect their overly romanticized imagination of their parents' living environment. It also demonstrates that wealth cannot replace the spiritual sense in life, such as love, friendship, respect, family, reputation, and joy, because these are priceless and cannot be bought in the market.
Additionally, the author explores the social roots of seeking happiness from the perspective of "positive psychology," encouraging more gratitude, forgiveness, and love in people's lives. This is an engaging read that reflects the thinking and argumentative approach of contemporary sociologists. In today's increasingly prevalent depression and stress, reading it provides a sense of mental relief.