Why if living standards of living are higher, people seem unhappier?

Question

Why if living standards of living are higher, people seem unhappier?

Answer 1

Although I don't have data in front of me, I believe it's reasonable to assert that there probably isn't a relationship between happiness and standard-of-living.

It's not absolute, that is, there probably are those who equate happiness with a higher standard of living, but generally, it's arguable that the lilelihood of such a relationship is remote.

For starters, happiness is a concept that seems rooted in the more cerebral and philosophical components of our humanity while standard of living is typically a measurement based on a laundry list of factors -from infant mortality rates to average household incomes, and everything in between.  However, across the continuum of those living standards there's no spot for the concept of "happiness."

As such, a standard of living is an artifact of man ... not natural law and, for many, not even common sense when it comes to measuring self-esteem, self-efficacy, and concepts like happiness.  For example, there are people livin g in poverty that consider themselves happy, while there are people at the upper end of the rich and wealthy scale who are downright miserable.  A standard of living scale cannot account for those examples.

And, finally, because happiness is a concept rooted in humanity (some would argue it's part of the hard-wiring of human nature), it seems to be attained by less of the concrete and material and more so by the spiritual and emotional.

Answer 2

Japan has the second highest suicide rate, Finland has also a very high rate yet they have the highest standards of living, but they have little knowledge of faith in the True God, the living God. Even poor people who have God are full of the joy of living and are grateful for their lives.

Answer 3

the more affluent a country is, the more selfish are it's people. -Visit someone who has only half a loaf of bread to their name and they will share it with a complete stranger, quite gladly.

In the UK people are so busy chasing material possessions from a young age, such as playstation, computers, designer clothes, mobiles etc in the misconception that they will be happier, more complete- Of course after a week of having the new toy they are back to being sulky, spoilt and miserable.  In the UK people equate material possessions with happiness and then wonder why they are all screwed up.

There is a saying "Don't store up possessions that you can't take to heaven".

The only riches in life are love, friendship, giving, sharing etc.

I live in Spain now and used to think that they people in my village were poor, as rarely do you see a mercedes, bmw etc or even a new car, they don't dress great either - I have since found out that many have quite a lot of money but obviously don't feel the need to splash out on cars and possession.  Their lives  revolve around socialising with friends and family and eating loads.  Weekends are always big family get togethers - I have a new car and actually felt embarrassed about driving it - you will rarely find a pair of Nikes either - branding consists mainly of Coke!

Answer 4

People need to know that they are loved, have a sense of belonging, feel that they are useful and have purpose in life.  None of this basic needs are fulfilled by having a high standard of living.  These needs are met through trusting, meaningful relationships with each other and/or a higher entity (i.e. God).

Answer 5

Because the requirements to obtain a high standard of living and the work put forth to KEEP that standard of living demands all of your time and effor to the job that keeps your standard.....'standard' and less time on anything social or intimate.  No social or intimate life....no happiness.....