Gelong Thubten’s A Monk’s Guide to Happiness has garnered attention for its accessible approach to ancient wisdom. While marketed with inspiring quotes promising a “direct path to happiness” through meditation and mindfulness, a deeper look reveals both its strengths and limitations. This review explores whether Thubten’s guide truly delivers on its promise, comparing it to other works in the field and considering its relevance in our increasingly anxious world.
The book aims to help readers achieve eudaimonia, or flourishing, aligning with Aristotle’s idea that happiness is the ultimate goal in life. However, Buddhist philosophy introduces the concept of “Craving” as a barrier to Nirvana. This craving prevents us from truly enjoying moments of happiness, fearing their impermanence. While Thubten aims to address this, questions arise about the effectiveness of his approach compared to established Buddhist teachings, especially considering events such as the involvement of some monks in violence, as seen in Myanmar.
Thubten’s association with figures like Benedict Cumberbatch lends the book some prestige. However, readers may also consider alternative guides from more established figures, such as Matthieu Ricard. Ricard, a former scientist and translator for the Dalai Lama, has participated in brain research demonstrating the profound effects of long-term meditation. Experiments have shown significant differences in brain activity between meditators and non-meditators, showcasing the power of meditative practice to control both mind and body.
The core argument in A Monk’s Guide to Happiness, echoing Buddha and Socrates, emphasizes the need to escape the agitation and anxiety of modern life. This is particularly relevant in our age of constant distractions, fueled by smartphones and digital overload. Thubten’s own experience, including a silent retreat on a remote Scottish island, lends credibility to his teachings. The retreat, where he and others were isolated from world events, including Obama’s election and a major financial crisis, highlights the transformative power of disconnecting from the constant stream of information.
While Thubten’s advice may seem familiar, drawing from sources like Aristotle and the Buddha, its value lies in providing a readily accessible guide to well-established principles. Like a “How to Become a Millionaire” guide that simply compiles existing knowledge, A Monk’s Guide to Happiness serves as a reminder of essential truths. It reiterates the importance of renouncing craving, a concept central to Stoic philosophy. The book touches on the concept of Hedonic Adaptation, highlighting how the satisfaction derived from material possessions fades quickly, leading to a perpetual desire for more. Ultimately, the book argues that time affluence is more valuable than financial wealth.
In conclusion, while A Monk’s Guide to Happiness might not break new ground, it offers a valuable synthesis of ancient wisdom for the modern reader. It provides a practical introduction to mindfulness and meditation, encouraging readers to find happiness not in external achievements, but in inner peace and contentment. Readers seeking a deeper dive into the science of happiness may also consider titles like Daniel Nettle’s Happiness: The Science Behind Your Smile.
