Americans are getting lazy...

[StarWorms]

We're now reaching a stage where people can live comfortable lives. Back in the past there was always the problem of dying early, but that's decreasing now and I expect there isn't much difference between the average, and the very rich in terms of how long they live, at least in the UK. I lead a pretty average life and it's quite comfortable - I don't have to work terribly hard to earn a living and I can also expect not to drop dead in the near future. I think many people would be satisfied with an average home and job, but with more free time to do other activities, or to spend more time with their children.

 

[Ecofarm]

Some of the happiest people in the world are the poorest of the poor in third world countries. Should we strive to be like them simply because they're happier than we are?

Yes

4567890

 

[Paradigne]

I think that the solution is the opposite problem. We are working ourselves to death. We put in 40-80 hours per week and get less done in that time. We goof off at work because we get so stressed out, feel underpaid, and unappreciated.

 

[History_Buff]

Exactly, which is why I like the French option. You get less hours, but about the same amount of . .. .. .. . gets done, and people are generally happy. I'd rather be Happy and Poor than Rich and unhappy. Which is one reason why GDP rankings are terrible ways to rate countries.