REDUCTIONISM - to reduce an idea or a concept (in this case, Happiness) to its basic elements in order to understand, define, refine, and expedite.

Reductionism does not work:

It is much easier to reduce or deconstruct Happiness into relevant elements (as we have done on this web site), than it is to rebuild it. The advantage of deconstruction is some added control and understanding that will assist in decision-making. However, it is impossible for anyone to predict an individual's Happiness based on the combination, addition, or subtraction of certain specific elements at certain times. We have a better shot of recognizing emergent variables (both positive and negative) if we focus exclusively on the all-important 'me', and quickly adjust strategies accordingly; (and there is some truth to the maxim of selfish rationality - it is often easier to help others if we have first helped ourselves). Yet it is still very much a hit or miss proposition even when dealing ONLY with the all-important 'me', because it is impossible to predict the timing of or our reaction to the infinite variables outside of our control. Nonetheless, we should still put forth the effort to live, learn, and grow as outlined on these pages. That effort though, must be coupled with a sense of reality.

Additionally, as it is with reductionism in other endeavors (such as Biology), if you do come up with a formula, theory, or experiment that tests positively, you have to ask yourself, "what am I leaving out? Which simplifications ignore, reduce, or obliterate synergy and interdependence?" (i.e. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts.) "Because it looks good on paper, does it consistently work well in practice. And even if I define a set of elements and follow a set of instructions, and it does seem to make me feel happier, am I really stretching myself towards true Happiness (Wisdom, Truth, Purpose), or am I creating a facsimile of happiness? Am I fooling myself?"

If you believe that you have attained True, Consistent Long-lasting Happiness, then you are saying you are satisfied. If you believe you are satisfied with your current reality, you are either very lucky, oblivious, or living a lie. I will never be satisfied, and I encourage you also, to always be in the throes of innovative-productive-prolific-inspired dissatisfaction.

Natural Happiness happens. Artificial Happiness is hunted, gutted, cut apart, sewn-up, and mounted on the wall. Which would you prefer?