[Buddha-l] buddhism and brain studies

[Alberto Todeschini]

Dear Erik,

Thank you for your comments.

> Most ancient philosophers
> as well as the Buddha as far as I can see thought happiness to be a
> more or less continuous state of wellbeing which is not or very little
> dependent on circumstances. 

According to Sonja Lyubomirsky, whose book I mentioned yesterday, 
circumstances account for 10%. Then there's a 50% set point (which was 
explained by Jamie Hubbard recently) and a 40% due to intentional activity.

Lest anyone (*cough* Richard Hayes *cough*) criticizes me for this, I 
should mention that I find these precise figures highly suspicious.

But let's forget about the exact figures and look at what is 
interesting: that very little depends on circumstances (such as a 
professor getting tenure; owning a large BMW or Sarah Palin becoming 
president in 2012 AND 2016) even though we regularly overestimate the 
impact circumstances have on our wellbeing. And that there is great 
scope (Lyubomirsky's 40%) to change how happy we are.

Below are some of the thinking and behavior patterns that according to 
Lyubomirsky characterize the happiest people. She's basing her remarks 
on contemporary science, but I'm sure those familiar with Buddhism or 
ancient philosophy will find much unsurprising:

the happiest people
- devote a lot of time to family and friends;
- are comfortable expressing gratitude;
- are often the first to help coworkers and passersby;
- think optimistically about the future;
- savor life's pleasure and live in the present moment;
- engage in regular physical exercise;
- are committed to lifelong goals and ambitions;
- cope well with challenges.

Sure, most of these sound obvious. But let's notice some omissions, such 
as any reference to wealth. And yet, how many people devote their 
existence to making money and acquiring material goods?


Best,

Alberto Todeschini