High Price of Materialism

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Self-acceptance

“I will follow my interests and curiosity where they take me.”

Affiliation

“I will express my love for special people.”

Community Feeling

“I will help the world become a better place.”

Slide 24

Psychological Benefits

More happiness

More life satisfaction

Higher vitality

Less depression

Less anxiety

Fewer physical symptoms

Live longer

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Social Benefits

More pro-social behaviour

More empathy

More cooperation

Less anti-social behaviour

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Ecological Benefits

More environmentally friendly behaviour

Lower Ecological Footprint

Less consumption

Slide 27

Policies for Change

Educate people about happiness, values, & ecology

Educate people about debt (in the US, which tends to lead European trends, the share of credit card to total debt is now approaching 50%, and in the UK the share is 30% and growing)

Encourage participation in physical activities and sport…flow

Slide 28

Time Affluence

Time Poverty in America

Americans work 160 hours per year more than 30 years ago

Americans work 9 weeks more per year than most Europeans

Less time available for personal interests, family, and community

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Ecological Benefits of Time Affluence

“If, by 2050, the world works as many hours as do Americans, it could consume 15-30 percent more energy than it would by following Europe. The additional carbon emissions could result in 1 to 2 degrees Celsius in extra global warming.”

Slide 30

Time Affluence - Policies

Provide more family leave

Pass minimum vacation laws

Enforce overtime legislation

Recommend shorter working weeks

Reduce housing costs

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Revolution of Values

Necessity of changing lifestyles and social practices

Policies needed to:

Decrease emphasis on materialism

Increase opportunities for expressing intrinsic values

Slide 33

Thirteen suggested steps for enhancing happiness

1 Be active 7 Be positive