Evolutionary psychology Quote by Christopher Ryan
““Still, the frequent absence of happiness is what keeps us pursuing it, and thus makes us productive.”10 This is a curious notion of productivity—at once overtly political and yet presented innocently enough, as if there were only one possible meaning of “productivity.” This perspective on life incorporates the Protestant work ethic (that “productivity” is what makes an animal “effective”) and echoes the Old Testament notion that life must be endured, not enjoyed. These assumptions are embedded throughout the literature of evolutionary psychology. Ethologist/primatologist Frans de Waal, one of the more open-minded philosophers of human nature, calls this Calvinist sociobiology.””
About This Quote
The quote suggests that the rarity of happiness drives us to seek it, which fuels productivity, linking this drive to cultural and religious ideas about work and endurance.
In simple terms: Happiness scarcity motivates effort and work.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that desire for happiness can be a productive force.
Themes
motivation
productivity
philosophy
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career ambition
- creative projects
- personal growth
- overcoming stagnation
Key Concepts
Protestant work ethic
Calvinist sociobiology
evolutionary psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your pursuit of happiness?
- How does scarcity shape your work ethic?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook the value of contentment and rest.
![“[Man] has imagined a heaven, and has left entirely out of it the supremest of all his delights, the one ecstasy that stands first and foremost in the heart of every individual of his race…sexual intercourse! It is as if a lost and perishing person in a roasting desert should be told by a rescuer…” quote by Christopher Ryan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/939/christopher-ryan-4309_joy_man-has-imagined-a-heaven-and-has-left-e_187069.jpg)
![“[Mood allocates] investments of time, effort, resources, and risk taking to maximize Darwinian fitness in situations of varying propitiousness. High and low moods adjust cognition and behavior to cope with propitious and unpropitious situations.” quote by Randolph M. Nesse](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6d0/randolph-m-nesse-24802_behavior_mood-allocates-investments-of-time-effor_87538.jpg)
