The Pursuit of Happiness: A Book of Studies and Strowings

Name: The Pursuit of Happiness: A Book of Studies and Strowings
Author: Daniel G. Brinton

By Daniel G. Brinton

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Philosophy & Ethics

About This Book

The essays examine happiness as the proper aim of life, arguing that it is both desirable and teachable, and defining happiness as an expanding self-consciousness grounded in pleasure but not identical with mere sensation. The author rebuts ascetic denials of enjoyment, surveys the relative value and hierarchy of pleasures, and analyzes how social position, age, and gender influence the distribution of well-being. Practical guidance for self-education is offered: multiply sources of enjoyment, avoid profitless pain, acquire useful knowledge about body and mind and practical affairs, and cultivate habits that foster growth rather than simple contentment.

About the Author

Daniel G. Brinton

Daniel G. Brinton was an influential American anthropologist and linguist known for his extensive studies of Native American cultures and languages. His works often explored the intersection of anthropology, history, and literature, contributing significantly to the understanding of indigenous peoples in North America. Among his notable publications is "A Primer of Mayan Hieroglyphics," which reflects his interest in ancient languages and their cultural contexts. Brinton's scholarship also includes studies on folklore, mythology, and the literary history of the Floridian Peninsula, showcasing his diverse interests and expertise in the field of Americanist studies.