The Gospel of Happiness: Rediscover Your Faith Through Spiritual Practice and Positive Psychology, by Christopher Kaczor
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The Gospel of Happiness: Rediscover Your Faith Through Spiritual Practice and Positive Psychology, by Christopher Kaczor
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What is true happiness? How can you experience it? And can you live it wholeheartedly in your day-to-day life? Every thoughtful person asks such questions. Thoughtful Christians ask a few more questions such as, Can Christian practices enhance happiness? If so, how? And does Christianity provide happiness in a way that other paths, like psychology, cannot? Christopher Kaczor suggests answers to these and other questions about how to be happier. In The Gospel of Happiness, the bestselling author of The Seven Big Myths of the Catholic Church highlights seven ways in which positive psychology and Christian practice can lead to personal and spiritual transformation. Focusing on empirical findings in positive psychology that point to the wisdom of many Christian practices and teachings, the author provides not only practical suggestions on how to become happier in everyday life but provides insight on how to deepen Christian practice and increase love of God and neighbor in new and bold ways.“Part of the Christian message is that authentic happiness is to be found not in selfishness, but self-giving,” writes Dr. Kaczor. “In this book, I highlight the many ways in which positive psychology and Christian practice overlap. All of this points us toward deeper fulfillment in this life, and in the life to come.”
The Gospel of Happiness: Rediscover Your Faith Through Spiritual Practice and Positive Psychology, by Christopher Kaczor- Amazon Sales Rank: #206016 in Books
- Brand: Kaczor, Christopher
- Published on: 2015-09-08
- Released on: 2015-09-08
- Original language: English
- Number of items: 1
- Dimensions: 8.54" h x .92" w x 5.73" l, 1.25 pounds
- Binding: Hardcover
- 208 pages
Review “At last, a Christian perspective on Positive Psychology that ratifies scripture by presenting the latest evidence-based science. Kaczor soars when he shows how Christian practices are the way to find fullness and freedom of life. Impressively integrative, reading this book was simultaneously edifying and enjoyable.” --Robert A. Emmons, Professor of Psychology UC Davis, Editor-in-Chief, The Journal of Positive Psychology, author of Gratitude Works! and Thanks! How the New Science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier. "Christopher Kaczor's new book provides a clear account of both the value of 'positive psychology' for Christians and an account of the value of Christian faith for human well-being. The book is beautifully written and will provide a great resource for those who want to know more about the value of empirical research on human well-being for the religious life, as well as the value of Christian practices and virtues for human flourishing." --C. Stephen Evans, University Professor of Philosophy and Humanities, Baylor University"Professor Kaczor has distilled the findings of positive psychology on the subject of happiness, showing their congruence with Christian theology. Amidst the torrent of self-help and popular psychology fads, this book stands apart as a gem with lasting value: it is practical, empirical, eminently readable, and deeply wise." --Aaron Kheriaty, MD, Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry Director, Program in Medical Ethics University of California Irvine School of Medicine"If Christians wish to penetrate the darkness of the modern soul, they must not only dialogue with the social sciences, they must speak in a truly integrative idiom. Dr. Kaczor's new book reflecting on happiness through the joint lenses of positive psychology and Christian faith provides a simple and persuasive model for us all to follow." --. Christian Brugger, D.Phil., J. Francis Cardinal Stafford Professor of Moral Theology, Saint John Vianney Theological Seminary“Professor Kaczor truly proclaims the Gospel of Happiness. In conversation with scientists and sages, literature and liturgy, drawing upon a treasure trove of classical and contemporary sources, he offers profound and practical pathways toward happiness, virtue, and the flourishing life. In engaging style suitable for personal growth, small group study, pastoral counseling, or college classroom, he shows how positive psychology validates Christian practice and how Christian practice completes positive psychology. Grace truly does perfect nature, and Kaczor perfects positive psychology.” --Keith A. Houde, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Psychology, Ave Maria University"Just as Augustine enlisted Plato and Aquinas mined Aristotle, Christopher Kaczor marshals the insights of positive psychology to illuminate the Christian faith in fresh ways, showing us how contemporary science confirms ancient wisdom. If you want to be happy, it turns out one of the best things you can do is practice traditional Christian disciplines like cultivating gratitude, extending forgiveness, and giving yourself away in service to others. This is philosophy that doesn’t just invite you to think differently but live differently. A marvelous book that has me looking at my own life anew." --James K.A. Smith, professor of philosophy, Calvin College and author of Desiring the Kingdom"Many outside the faith (and too many within) believe Christianity to be a depressing religion obsessed with sin and suffering. Kaczor smashingly rights the wrong with this engaging, Christian reading of the scientific findings of positive psychology. Readers of this book will discover the wise happiness at the heart of Christianity." --Eric L. Johnson, Ph.D. Lawrence and Charlotte Hoover Professor of Pastoral Care The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary"God made us to be happy — to be blessed and to live with joy. And all of us are born with this desire for happiness in our hearts. But sometimes we can get a little lost along the way. We can find ourselves looking for happiness in the wrong places. Christopher Kaczor shows us the right path and he walks the path with us — shining new light on the ancient ways of forgiveness and gratitude, humility, prayer and service to our neighbor. Kaczor is a wise guide and this book can help all of us to grow in our relationships with others and our journey with God." --The Most Rev. José H. Gomez, Archbishop of Los Angeles "In The Gospel of Happiness, Christopher Kaczor creates a refreshing new approach to a traditional theme lying at the heart of both Christianity and philosophy – the pursuit of happiness. Recognizing the dictum of Aristotle that happiness is the one objective we seek for itself, and that everything else is sought for the sake of happiness, he creates an understandable, practical, and usable path that combines contemporary psychology with traditional Christian teaching. He lays his foundation by appealing to seven Christian ways to happiness – “faith, hope, and love,” prayer, gratitude, forgiveness, virtue, and willpower, and enriches them with the five elements of positive psychology – positive emotion, engagement, relationships, meaning, and achievement. By using Martin Seligman’s new positive approach to psychology, he bridges formerly perceived gaps between psychology and faith -- opening the way for Christians to benefit from the insights and healing of this important discipline." --Robert J. Spitzer, S.J., Ph.D., author of Finding True Happiness
About the Author
DR. CHRISTOPHER KACZOR is William E. Simon Visiting Fellow in Religion and Public Life in the James Madison Program at Princeton University and is professor of philosophy at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. Dr. Kaczor's research on issues of ethics, philosophy, and religion has been in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Los Angeles Times, the Huffington Post, and National Review, as well as on NPR, BBC, EWTN, ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, MSNBC, TEDx, and The Today Show.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Positive Psychology, Spirituality, People of Faith.... By missmickee/bookreview Written in the ease of conversational style, "The Gospel of Happiness: Rediscover Your Faith Through Spiritual Practice and Positive Psychology" (2015) is a deeply meaningful and inspirational read authored by Dr. Christopher Kaczor, the professor of philosophy at Layla Marymount University in Los Angeles, and popular and acclaimed speaker on radio and television. His research has been featured in many notable publications: the NYT, Huffington Post, Los Angeles Times, Wall Street Journal and the National Review.It was the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900) who believed that following Christian principles would tax and burden people: "drain(ing) them of love, life and happiness." As the study of positive psychology has increased since the 1960's; combined with traditional religious practice, greatly benefiting not only Christians and people of faith, but society overall. Dr. Kaczor outlines the PERMA principle which stands for Positive, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Achievement which enhances and promotes the quality of life in loving relationships vital for happiness and well being. This is also supported by Martin E.P. Seligman (1942-) who is recognized as the founder of positive psychology.Throughout the book, Dr. Kaczor presents Christian teaching and principles without preaching: the Gospel is called the "Good News" which in essence is based on positive psychological teachings, as the commandment of Christ "to love one another" is observed.Many other books, non-religious teachings and quotes by various individuals are included. Combined with PERMA principles other chapters are titled: The Way of Faith, Hope, and Love ~ The Way of Prayer ~ The Way of Gratitude ~ The Way of Forgiveness ~ The Way of Virtue ~ The Way of Willpower ~ are surprisingly helpful, inspirational, faith based. A brief story is shared, of gratitude related to Dr. Kaczor's own medical emergency.Pointing out the difference between genuine happiness and fleeting happiness, Dr. Kaczor cites the "Pursuit of Perfect" (2009) when author Tal-Ben-Shahar won Israel's national squash championship: his happiness lasted 3 hours before he realized his achievement wasn't that great after all. Robin Williams said his joy over winning an Academy Award lasted a week. The Mega-success of the best selling album of all time "Thriller" (1983) was short lived, Michael Jackson unsatisfied, only pushed to achieve more with his next album. Research indicates that status, fame, wealth doesn't equal happiness. David Meyers notes that American's have increased their material wealth in the last 50 years, yet they are no more happier for it. Lotto winners after the initial shock of winning are no more happier then before their new wealth. Fortune 500 CEO's report less happiness than the average citizen.This book is also encouraging for those from all walks of life, going beyond the "feel good" approach. Dr. Kaczor is also the bestselling author of "The Seven Big Myths About The Catholic Church" (2012) and several other books related to the Catholic faith. Many thanks and much appreciation to Image New York for the ARC of this book for the purpose of review.
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Readable, Common Sense Ways to Increase Happiness that Align with Christianity By StephanieMMP At times, an unnecessary tension exists between psychological research and Christian faith, but Dr. Christopher Kaczor has now written a helpful book to clear a path through that forest of tension. In “The Gospel of Happiness,” he highlights the many ways that positive psychological research agrees with practices of the faith, yet he manages to keep his distance and not blur any important distinctions, such as to claim that any of this research “proves” Christian doctrine, or make any unkeepable promises such as that becoming or being a Christian will make your life easier or happier. Who among us is perfect at this whole life thing, after all?Kaczor acknowledges that “Freud’s atheistic materialism, and reduction of theism to a childish desire for a father figure as a savior from helplessness, exemplifies this conflict” (181). Yet this is not the end of the story. He continues: “the full history of psychology and Christian belief is more complicated and interesting” (181).Overall, the book is worth reading, and it doing some of the exercises in the book did help me appreciate the people and things in my life more. One key is that it can only work if you are willing to let it, as in to actually try it. If you approach it cynically and assume it’s all a load of baloney, it would be hard to appreciate new things.Without further ado, here are some of the most interesting and useful parts of the book.For one thing, he gives a fully fleshed out definition of what happiness actually is: and surprise, it goes beyond feelings and possessions. The acronym PERMA sums it up. Yes, P is for positive emotions (joy, gratitude, etc). E is for engagement, actually participating in communities and activities that are inherently rewarding, and having experiences of flow and total engagement. R is for relationships, loving, self-giving relationships. (Love one another as I have loved you -Christ Jesus). M is for meaning, having a purpose, a connection to something higher.And finally, A is for accomplishments. This one is interesting. It isn’t about social comparison, but rather putting earnest effort into something meaningful and enjoying both the effort and the final product. “Non-comparative accomplishment is a necessary part of flourishing” (37). “Positive psychology provides powerful evidence that the pursuit of happiness via social comparison is likely to end in disappointment” (37). It is the difference between writing an excellent short story and winning a contest for short story writing. It is about finding work that is intrinsically valuable to the doer, and it is surprisingly difficult to do.This PERMA definition immediately clarifies why having a law degree and a high salary doesn’t always make people happy. The social comparison aspect actually contributes to disappointment and the money is fine, but it cannot replace the positive emotions, engagements, or meaning. In one sense, all these findings are common sense. But so rarely do we actually practice them in real life.Fortunately, Kaczor also provides some strategies for developing peace and happiness. Kaczor describes the surprising effectiveness of the 3 Good Things exercise, in which at the end of the day, you reflect on three good things that happened and why they happened.“The three good things exercise helps correct our negativity bias. Yes, of course, there are things in our lives that we wish were different–things about ourselves, things about others, things about our society. Yet to have an accurate, unbiased understanding, we also need to recognize the good things in ourselves, in others, and in society that we can so quickly forget or even fail to notice all together” (105).All the bad things in life are real, but so are the good things. Reflecting on this even made getting gas and paying bills less of chores for me. I realized that I am lucky to have a car, lucky to live in a decent home and have heat and air conditioning and electricity. In the past and in the present, many people do not have these goods that I consider so basic as to resent paying for them.It also helped me to see the interconnected-ness of things. I have a car because my parents bought it for me, not because I earned it or deserve it. And because of it, I have much to be grateful for such as driving an hour out to the country to pick apples with my kids. We humans, myself included, have a tendency to remember negative events, so this exercise helps correct that. Props for that. Next, forgiveness: Quoting an article, Kaczor describes a grievance story, the type of perspective that prevents forgiveness: “Initially, a grievance story is simply one’s version of what happened. But over time, it can become something more malignant–a detail packed, often obsessively repeated, subtly or not-so-subtly distorted account that embellishes the role of a villain who is responsible for one’s misery.” (121)Immediately, I could think of countless occasions on which I had done this and felt myself genuinely wronged. But it was in fact a distortion of reality. The other person was not out to get me, and was just pursuing different goods.In order to forgive, and get over the “I am a victim” mentality that gives others control over our well-being, he refers to the HEAL acronym: Hope, educate, affirm and long-term commitment. I’ll leave the details of that for the reader to discover, but the main purpose is to look for the goals and goods that the other person was trying to pursue and not to take the offense personally. In short, to forgive, we must learn to see the humanity of the other person. In a way, it is much like Non-Violent Communication, by Marshall Rosenberg, and it is also very in line with Christian ethics.One thing the book doesn’t spend much time on, that I would have appreciated, was obstacles to the happiness; ie the mental blocks or cognitive distortions that skew people’s perceptions of reality and make them unhappy.Through the book, however, I reflected a good deal on my own life. The most striking thought that has stayed with me most was the assertion that happy people are already in heaven and that miserable people are already in hell. Kaczor quotes Archbishop Fulton Sheen: “As a matter of fact, heaven is not way out there; heaven is in here. Hell is not way down there; hell could be inside a soul. There is no such thing as dying then going to heaven, or dying and going to hell. You are in heaven already. You are in hell already” (63).It’s not that we can’t make a change or that our fates are sealed, but that without the love of God and acceptance of his grace, we are literally in hell already. Doesn’t this make sense when we observe people who are perpetually angry and anything will set them off? They already live apart from all goodness; they simply cannot see it, and so they are miserable.Doesn’t it also make sense when we see someone who seems to shine with an inner light? Such a one has come through horrible situations and circumstances but proved resilient? This person can see others as they truly are, and he or she seeks to alleviate suffering. These people are already in heaven and they are inspiring to us.It’s worth asking ourselves, where do I live? Heaven or hell? For me, as I suspect for most people, it may be a little of both, up and down some days. But we can ask ourselves where we are living, where we want to live, and we can ask God to help take us there.**Disclosure: I received this book to review for free from Blogging for Books. However, my review is my own, real opinion and I do not benefit from giving it a good or bad review.
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Where Christian experience and positive psychology meet and overlap By Stuart Dunn The Gospel of Happiness is a book that I would normally glance at the title in a bookstore and then pass it over and keep looking at other books. Maybe it's the fact that it sounds too much like the prosperity gospel, or maybe it's that the book is bright yellow. I'm not really sure, but the author of the book Dr. Christopher Kaczor, is someone I have read before and someone I trust as an author, so I decided to give this book a chance. The book's main goal is to show how positive psychology and Christian practice overlap. Chapter One explains Martin Seligman's five elements of happiness - 1. Positive emotion, 2. Engagement, 3, Relationships, 4. Meaning, and 5. Achievement (PERMA). Dr. Kaczor elaborates on each of the five elements and explains how they relate to Christian practice. For example, "The Christian call to engagement is also seen in various personal vocations to different states in life. Through finding and living out a vocation [ . . . ] a person engages in an activity of service to others."Chapter Two discusses tapping into this great joy which is God by way of faith, hope, and love - the three theological virtues. He explains this further by telling us the following three things. 1. People of faith believe that what they do matters both presently and eternally. 2. Hope is more than a wish that things turn out well, but the belief that despite how awful things are on earth, Heaven is a reality. 3. Love of God is the greatest love, because when we love God we unite our will with his and it opens us up to loving everyone, including our enemies. The remaining chapters in the book cover prayer, gratitude, forgiveness, virtue, and willpower.This was an interesting book in which Dr. Kaczor does a fine job of showing how Christianity and positive psychology intersect. With that said, a lot of the book felt like preaching to the choir, as most Christians will tell you that the reason for their positive outlook and practices are because of their faith in God and practicing of his teachings. I believe this book would primarily appeal to those interested in the field of psychology and psychiatry. As someone with a BA in psychology, I was appreciative to read about the field of positive psychology, as much of what I encountered in pursuing my undergraduate degree turned me off of the subject entirely. Four stars.
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