Unraveling the Connection between Conformity and Happiness
Book Review by Cait (Opinions are Her Own)
Written in 2019 and edited in 2025
Eric Weiner’s “The Geography of Bliss: One Grump's Search for the Happiest Places in the World” is an enlightening and enjoyable read that delves into the fascinating topic of how countries measure happiness. Through Weiner’s journey, readers gain a wealth of information about the factors that contribute to a nation’s well-being. This exploration prompts profound contemplation about the very essence of happiness and its underlying components.
One key concept that emerges from this study is the significance of conformity in shaping a country’s happiness. Weiner examines five countries — Iceland, Bhutan, Thailand, and Switzerland — that exemplify this idea. These nations prioritize freedom of choice, the ability to pursue one’s desires, and the willingness to embrace new experiences.
Iceland stands out as a particularly intriguing case study. In this country, the concept of failure is viewed with a unique perspective. Instead of being seen as a negative outcome, it is embraced as a stepping stone to success. As Weiner aptly puts it, “The crap allows the good stuff to grow.” This mindset encourages artists in Iceland to pursue their dreams fearlessly, regardless of their skill level. The support system provided by the community ensures that these individuals never lose hope or feel isolated. The knowledge that there is a network of people behind them, cheering them on, brings immense happiness and fulfillment.
A willingness to try something new always stems from the support of those around the trier, known as the observers. These are the people who stand by the triers and consistently display positive and supportive attitudes. In Iceland, there’s a remarkable community where people genuinely enjoy helping each other succeed. All knowledge is shared, and there’s no envy; instead, there’s collective joy in witnessing each individual pursue their passions. Switzerland also suppresses envy by refraining from displaying their wealth. However, compared to Iceland, the Swiss tend to conform to the notion that everyone must be similar and have a “say” in their lives. Further to the East, Bhutan and Thailand exemplify positivity by demonstrating compassion, lacking selfishness, and valuing people and relationships over potential conflicts arising from someone trying something new. In all four countries, both the trier and the observer have the freedom to make choices in their lives, which ultimately leads to widespread conformity. After all, how bad could it be to adapt to a place where individuals are allowed to be themselves? Through this conformity, the shared sense of happiness fosters a connection based on common ideals or understandings.
It’s important we take religion into account next. Bhutan and Thailand share a common worldview due to their shared Buddhist heritage. This religious influence fosters a culture that discourages selfish behavior and promotes a sense of contentment. Both countries consistently rank high on happiness scales, partly because Buddhism encourages living in the present moment, taking things as they come, and embracing the concept of reincarnation or a second chance at life. Notably, Bhutan has a higher ratio of monks to soldiers, reflecting its deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. In Thailand, the citizens adopt the phrase “mai pen lai,” which translates to “never mind” or “drop it, it doesn’t matter, let’s not dwell on the small stuff.” This attitude of resilience and acceptance contributes to the overall happiness of their societies. While some countries may not have a dominant religious influence, they find happiness in the simple pleasures and beauty of their natural surroundings. Mindfulness at its finest, it seems.
Iceland and Switzerland, despite their lack of religion, share a profound worldview about their surroundings and their identities. Iceland, with its six-month-long darkness, paradoxically fosters a culture of creativity and drinking. Embracing the darkness is an integral part of their lives, and they have even developed a genetic resistance to Seasonal Affective Disorder, otherwise simplified to quite literally “SAD”. The energy surrounding Iceland is said to be unlike any other, inspiring creativity and indirectly contributing to happiness. In contrast, Switzerland’s nature is more closely tied to its cultural customs. The Swiss are renowned for their efficiency and neutrality, even in times of war. They lead simple lives and find contentment in their existence. The Swiss have mastered the art of balancing emotions, neither requiring excessive happiness nor sadness. Both countries’ citizens have adapted to their societies through either the natural environment or cultural influences, ultimately sharing a common worldview that brings happiness to their citizens.
There are countries that don’t exude the same level of positivity and happiness as Iceland, Bhutan, Thailand, and Switzerland. Moldova stands out as the most unhappy country on the happiness scale. This country’s reluctance to embrace new experiences stems from deep-seated distrust and skepticism towards its neighbors. Moreover, Moldova’s constant comparison to successful European countries fuels envy, particularly regarding wealth and strength. The Moldovan population is largely independent, and the country lacks a strong sense of identity. These factors suggest that a country’s happiness hinges on a shared worldview. If Moldova were to stop comparing itself to successful nations and cultivate a unique culture, it might find a path to happiness.
In conclusion, the word “conformity” may carry a negative connotation, perhaps because us Americans tend to resist it. However, these five countries have proposed a paradox: complete happiness may require conformity, but only if a country allows individuals to express themselves and make choices.
