What was going on? Brickman surmised that, in the case of…
““What was going on? Brickman surmised that, in the case of the lottery winners, they now derived significantly less pleasure from ordinary events like buying clothes or talking to a friend. What was once enjoyable was no longer so. Psychologists call this the “hedonic treadmill.” Much like a regular treadmill, the hedonic treadmill makes you sweat and should be avoided at all costs. Unlike a regular treadmill, however, the hedonic variety is definitely not good for your health. It will drive you nuts, this infinite cycle of pleasure and adaptation. Interestingly, there are two notable exceptions to the hedonic treadmill. Noise and big breasts. Studies have found that we never really get used to loud noises, despite prolonged exposure. Another study found that women who get breast implants never tire of the enjoyment it brings them, and presumably their companions feel the same.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People quickly adapt to positive events, reducing lasting happiness, while certain stimuli remain perpetually rewarding.
In simple terms: Pleasure fades except for loud noises and breast implants.
Key Takeaway
Seek lasting fulfillment beyond fleeting pleasures.
Themes
hedonic adaptation
pleasure
psychology
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
observational
analytical
When to use this quote
- consumer behavior
- relationship counseling
- media studies
- personal development
Key Concepts
adaptation
stimulus habituation
reward systems
Questions to Reflect On
- What experiences retain their joy over time?
- How can we design lives that avoid hedonic fatigue?
A Different Perspective
Not all stimuli are equally adaptable; cultural bias may affect reported exceptions.