A pro-happiness government might also treat public servants differently. In one of Halpern's studies doctors asked to make a diagnosis from x-rays did so faster and more creatively when offered sweets while working, which boosted their mood.
Other findings — such as that a materialistic culture of keeping up with the Joneses fuels unhappiness, since someone will always have possessions more desirable than yours — are ahead of their time. Halpern admits government is not ready for taxes on consumption. None the less his findings show that increased economic prosperity in the UK has not produced happier citizens. "When you look at wealthy nations, GDP is less important than the measures of institutional freedoms," said Halpern.
For ultimately, according to Halpern, our happiness relies on those closest to us: "The way in which people treat each other is really, really important. Acts of consideration and kindness loom very large." In other words, to do yourself a favor — first do a favor for someone else. It could just save your life.
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