Happiness Quote by J.P. Moreland
““The current understanding of happiness identifies it as a pleasurable feeling. Pleasant feelings are surely better than unpleasant ones, but the problem today is that people are obsessively concerned with feeling happiness; people are slaves to their feelings. Feelings are wonderful servants but terrible masters. When people make happiness their goal, they do not find it and, as a result, start living their lives vicariously through identification with celebrities.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Philosophy of Happiness, J.P. Moreland, 2015
Happiness pursued as a goal becomes a trap; seeking pleasure directly often leads to dissatisfaction and dependence on external validation.
In simple terms: Chasing happiness directly can backfire.
Key Takeaway
Focus on purpose, not feeling.
Themes
happiness
pleasure
obsession
celebrity culture
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- media consumption
- mental health
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
psychology
philosophy
mindfulness
Questions to Reflect On
- How does defining success by feelings limit fulfillment?
- What practices help shift focus from feeling to being?
A Different Perspective
Happiness may be a byproduct, not a primary aim.
