Manufacturing happy citizens: how the science and industry of happiness control our lives

Edgar Cabanas, Eva Illouz

Research output: Book/ReportBook

Abstract

The imperative of happiness dictates the conduct and direction of our lives. There is no escape from the tyranny of positivity. But is happiness the supreme good that all of us should pursue' So says a new breed of so-called happiness experts, with positive psychologists, happiness economists and self-development gurus at the forefront. With the support of influential institutions and multinational corporations, these self-proclaimed experts now tell us what governmental policies to apply, what educational interventions to make and what changes we must undertake in order to lead more successful, more meaningful and healthier lives. With a healthy scepticism, this book documents the powerful social impact of the science and industry of happiness, arguing that the neoliberal alliance between psychologists, economists and self-development gurus has given rise to a new and oppressive form of government and control in which happiness has been woven into the very fabric of power.
Original languageEnglish
Place of PublicationMedford, MA
PublisherPolity Press
Number of pages218
ISBN (Electronic)1509537902, 9781509537907
StatePublished - 2019

Bibliographical note

"First published in French as Happycratie, © Premier Parallèle, 2018"--Title page verso.

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