Argument Analysis

The two authors main points is surround around the question of “HOW much money do you need to be happy?” which leads to the idea that under indulging can lead to greater happiness for one's money.

The authors use evidence conducted by a student who used chocolate as the reward. One group of participants had to wait a week between chocolate consumption and the other group was able to consume as much chocolate throughout the week. The study concluded that the first group enjoyed the chocolate after waiting between the time period. Therefore, confirming that “Under Indulging — temporarily giving up chocolate, even when we have the cash to buy all we want — can renew our enjoyment of the things we love.” Contrary to this argument that under indulgence is a key to happiness is the soda example. Banning sugary beverages at schools can serve as a long enough time period for kids to overindulge when they get home and increase happiness when consuming pop.Both of these examples are relevant in balancing this argument and is able to show both sides of the argument.

The chocolate experiment though not very quantitative it comes to a plausible conclusion and reinforces the authors conclusions. Meanwhile the soda example showcases the unintended consequences of trying to reduce childhood obesity by limiting the opportunities to consume sugar based drinks. However that conclusion isn’t relevant to the author’s conclusion but the fact that the kids utility is greater when consuming soda after school does reinforce that indulgence can lead to more happiness.

The authors main point that under indulgence can lead to greater happiness is dependent on a behaviour change by the user and direct change in consumption patterns. Which is understandable and warranted to complete their argument. One objection is the fact that over indulgence can cross the line of enjoyment if the activity or consumption is a top priority for the user. For example, I really enjoy ice cream and I consume it 1-2 times a day and I enjoy it more every time. This objection is relevant because depending on the user and type of consumption, happiness can come from over indulgence. I don’t believe the author’s addressed this fact in a convincing way. All in all, I do agree with the fact that under indulgence can lead to better enjoyment of many experiences and can lead to greater happiness.

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