Today, influenced by books on the science of happiness and quick self-help cures, we have settled for a much weaker version of happiness than previous cultures: just enjoyment of pleasure and avoidance of pain. It is only through rediscovering previous religions and philosophies - through the individuals who put forward the ideas - that we can learn how to be genuinely happy again. With wit and warmth, Richard Schoch explores these ideas - from the Meditations of Marcus Aurelius to Buddha's Four Noble Truths - and travels through cultures and centuries to provide enduring wisdom for modern living.