But we have ample evidence that his unhappy personality predated his deafness. Even before his hearing loss set in, for example, he complained bitterly about his music’s shortcomings ...

The happy person is not enamored with material goods or luxury vacations. This person is fine with the simple pleasures of life—petting a dog, sitting under a tree, enjoying a cup of tea.

It’s difficult to distinguish the direction between health and happiness. Does a happy person also have better health care and stronger relationships, which benefits their health? Does dealing ...