Boosting happiness.

There probably is an art to pursuit and someone has, no doubt, written about it. It is possible that a less deliberate or direct effort will get us somewhere far more satisfying. Wishing and making happiness on others is effortless and productive -- and most likely more of an art than we have considered.


The Banks of the Bièvre near Bicêtre. Henri Rousseau. 1908. Oil on canvas. Gift of Marshall Field, Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Researchers find 'micro-acts' can boost well-being

Allison Aubrey: This project did not begin as a typical research study, but rather a "citizen-science" project which is still open to anyone who wants to participate. Here's how it works. Participants take an on-line survey to answer questions about their emotions, stress, and their social tendencies. Then, every day for seven consecutive days, they agree to try small, happiness-boosting activities, what the researchers have dubbed "micro-acts" of joy.

Does exposure to news about local corruption increase dishonest behavior among citizens?

American Economic Association: Authors Giorgio Gulino and Federico Masera show that when Italians were exposed to news about local corruption they were more likely to steal from supermarkets.

Katie Couric: Going There

Get to know Katie Couric in an engaging conversation with Adriana Trigiani about the books they read and what they wish for the world.