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Boston, MA (AHN) - A recent survey revealed that those who spend a reasonable amount of money on other people experience greater elation than those who buy things for themselves. Scientists from the Harvard Business School gathered 632 Americans and questioned them about their income, their spending habits, and their level of happiness.
Survey: Generosity Towards Others Brings Greater Happiness | March 22, 2008 | AHN (http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7010405366 - broken link)
I think this is flawed. On the other hand I believe that generosity is good- to a point. When someone takes advantage of it is when it becomes a problem. If you have no money there is no way this can apply to you. I enjoy helping people, but unless I experience generosity from time to time as well, it becomes easier to just ignore others. Any study based on opinions expressed is suspect, but my view is that generosity only brings pleasure if it is experienced both as giver and recipient over the long haul.
Many of my friends, when they stroll among the beggar's hovels just kick the filthy rabble aside and continue with their tour of the picturesque dwellings of mud and cardboard.
I, however, being much more refined and compassionate, throw pennies and nickels on the ground and watch the poor unfortunates fight over it.
This always makes me feel good and I enjoy doing it. Not just because it's an exciting sporting event, but because I have generously contributed part of my wealth to make their lives better.
I wish they could write so I could get a receipt for tax purposes.
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