The Science of Happiness Unlocking the Mysteries of Mood

How should we define happiness–and how happy are we supposed to be? Does each of us have a genetically determined "set point" of happiness? What dangers may lie in the new breed of drugs that allow us to fine-tune our moods so that we are happy most of the time? Fascinating research in a range of fields is providing provocative answers to these and many more questions about what makes us happy and how we can control our moods. We are in the midst of a revolution in the understanding of how our brains work; at the same time, we have entered a bold new age of pharmacology that is allowing drug-makers to craft molecules that are exquisitely tailored to produce desired mood-altering effects. In this lively and stimulating narrative, acclaimed science writer Stephen Braun takes readers to the frontlines of discovery in these areas and explores how this "brave new world" of mood manipulation will impact our lives. Based on extensive interviews with scientists at the forefront of research, as well as the compelling personal stories of many individuals, The Science of Happiness presents an accessible, engaging, and well-balanced account of what we need to know as we enter this new era. "Readers who want a quick overview of the latest neuroscientific research into how antidepressants and mood-elevating drugs work need look no further."–Publishers Weekly "Chiefly valuable in raising some important issues."–Kirkus Reviews "This brief, engaging, and personal view of mood and its influence on all aspects of our lives travels from drug company labs to Zen retreats in an effort to open up the black box containing temperament. [Braun’s] writing is powerfully charming, even while delving into deep philosophical issues and little-understood scientific theories."–Amazon.com