Would winning the lottery make you happier? - Raj Raghunathan
TED-Ed・3 minutes read
Winning the lottery does not guarantee long-term happiness as shown by a study of 22 lottery winners, who reported similar or decreased happiness levels post-win, attributing this to hedonic adaptation. However, spending money on experiences or others can lead to greater happiness compared to material possessions.
Insights
- Despite winning the lottery, happiness levels of winners did not rise significantly due to hedonic adaptation, where individuals adjust to new circumstances, highlighting that increased wealth does not guarantee lasting happiness.
- Research suggests that investing money in experiences or others rather than material possessions can result in higher levels of happiness, emphasizing the importance of how money is spent over the amount acquired.
Get key ideas from YouTube videos. It’s free
Recent questions
Can money buy happiness?
Yes, but only to a certain extent.
How do lottery winners feel after winning?
Not significantly happier in the long term.
What is hedonic adaptation?
The tendency to return to a baseline level of happiness.
How can money be spent for greater happiness?
By investing in experiences or others.
Why do some lottery winners feel unhappy?
Due to challenges in managing wealth and social isolation.
Related videos
Andy Millard
Happy Poor, Unhappy Rich
TEDx Talks
Food for thought: How your belly controls your brain | Ruairi Robertson | TEDxFulbrightSantaMonica
CNBC Make It
How Much Money Do You Need To Earn To Be Happy?
60 Minutes
Seniors hacking the lottery, living their best lives and inventing plant-based fuels | Full Episodes
After Skool
Does More Money Equal More Happiness?