Money Can Buy Anything, Even Happiness Research Paper

Everyone is familiar with the saying that money cannot buy happiness, however, the people who say this do not know where to shop. Research conducted over time has shown that money and happiness have a direct correlation. Having more money means having more possessions, and for the majority of people this leads to all the benefits of life. Studies explain a view that happiness continues to rise with increasing income levels. Maybe money cannot buy the love or support of others, but it can keep individuals happy.

Over time the question of whether money and happiness have anything to do with each other has been raised. The interest of this topic has led to headlines in papers, research, and even music.  Country performer, Chris Jansen, sings, “Yeah, and I know what they say, money cannot buy everything…  But it could buy me a boat”. This lyric explains that while money cannot purchase concepts such as love and support, it can buy items that boost people’s happiness and comfort. In an online study it states, “The happiest people in the study seemed to be the ones who spent more on things or services...  ”. In today’s day and age, people have become very materialistic. Having the highest social status or being up to date with the newest trends is what most individuals are starting to strive for. However, people cannot purchase the newest iPhone or be a part of the upper class without one thing, money. This realization has made many wonder: is wealth the key to satisfaction?

Many people today may discouraged by their personal income, and believe that they will never be content. The constant push for wealth that our society creates can be a difficult thing to process, however this is a good thing. Individuals ranging from preteens to mature adults know that money is needed in order to encounter experiences or make purchases that make them happy. This thinking process creates a hardworking and competitive atmosphere. Everyone has the opportunity to gain wealth through determination and dedication, however, it is up to each individual to take the chance and run with it. According to the article “By Our Own Bootstraps”, “Opportunity is rarely far from our experience…. Sam Walton, Ross Perot, Bill Cosby, Mary Kay Ash… catapulted from the lower middle ranks to the top” (Cox & Alm par 3). These authors use well known, famous Americans to show real-life rags to riches situations. Going from the bottom of the social ladder to the very top is a boost in well being and income. This connection shows the direct correlation between social status and happiness. 

Although there is research illustrating the relationship of wealth and pleasure, the other point of view does have some valid arguments. People all over will be quick to explain that happiness is attainable at any social status or income level. Some individuals believe that happiness is not found in purchases or class ranking. However, through the article “Stuck in the Middle”, readers see that lower class individuals are not happy, and instead embarrassed of their low social placement. In the article it states, “Our lower class is Nobody… clinging to middle-class status” (King 312). This quote shows that people labeled as “nobodies” or lower class are unsatisfied with their placement, and a big factor in this is their lack of money. If happiness has no correlation with money, individuals would not be shamed by their inferior financial state or lower social rank.

Growing up, individuals constantly hear, “Money does not buy happiness, but let us find out to be sure”. When given the opportunity to have money or not, anyone would choose to inherit some cash. Through studies and research the strong relationship between money and happiness is proven. Having a greater income gives people the chance to embark on fun experiences and purchase what they desire. The world today is driven by hardwork and determination to make it in our society. This leads people to taking opportunities in order to excel. Although money cannot buy some concepts, happiness is not one of them.