Happiness, or a sense of well-being, is a condition that brings about contentment. Happiness is complex because it depends on so many factors. Money is only one factor in happiness. I mean can money buy happiness?
I never thought deeply about this topic, and whenever it was brought up, I always said no. I didn’t want to be perceived as shallow, so I avoided even considering yes. After listening to an upbeat song, my belief that money couldn’t buy happiness was challenged. The line below prompted this questioning. The line “Whoever told me that money can’t make you happy is never broke or would try to get there” sparked this question. This line was very memorable to me. It made me think about the person who said that money could not buy happiness. You can’t understand the mental impact of money if you haven’t experienced it. Money isn’t the only thing that matters in life, but it is necessary for everything. Without money to cover these costs, one’s mental state will suffer. According to statistics, income and happiness are strongly linked. Money brings security, control and choice, all of which are prerequisites for a ‘happy life’. Money can increase happiness as it’s necessary to reach a certain level of income in order to be financially secure. Money is a great way to reduce anxiety, whether you are shopping for groceries, eating out or paying rent. Some people argue that money is nothing more than ink and paper. When a pastor receives a donation of a million dollars from a male, I’m certain he is happy. If a woman wins a lottery, she’s sure to be elated. Just imagine the people who die in hospitals due to their inability to pay for certain operations. Tell them right now that you are donating the money and then tell my if I don’t think they will be happy. I dare you to not be a child-like smile when you receive a million dollars. To all those who believe money cannot buy happiness, I challenge you to give me your entire money, and then we’ll see what you do with nothing. Then come back and let me know if you are happy.
In the 21st century, life is fast-paced and consumer-oriented. We are constantly surrounded by media that reinforces the notion that happiness is about buying the perfect house or car, wearing fashionable clothes, or posting status updates to the newest high-tech gadgets. We are constantly bombarded with the message, ‘Buy your way to Happiness’. If material possessions and money are the keys to happiness why then do so many celebrities with wealth take anti-depressants or attempt suicide, go to rehab, etc.?
My friends, this leads us on to the dark side of our debate. We will explore the connection between money and the pursuit of happiness. All that money is able to buy, whether it’s objects or experiences, are temporary. All of these things are temporary sources of enjoyment, as they only last a few years. Money, like all other objects, cannot bring happiness. Money is a fleeting emotion that never lasts. We adapt when we spend money on things. Then we move on to the next thing that will make us temporarily happier. Money and happiness are best illustrated by heroine. These drugs create a sort of euphoria or high. The high decreases as your body adapts to new levels of happiness. Therefore, you need to take increasingly more drugs in order to maintain the same feeling. This quote sums it up perfectly: ‘Money cannot buy happiness, but it can rent it.’
