Happiness in the 21st century

Unlock discussions on happiness and consumerism! Boost your English vocabulary and critical thinking skills today.

Complete the quotes with a correct word. WATCH OUT! You need to change the form of the word.Words: SATISFY, FULFIL, CONSUME, POSSESS, ADDICT 1.“You say, 'If I had a little more, I should be very satisfied.' You make a mistake. If you are not content with what you have, you would not be satisfied if it were doubled.” ~ Charles Spurgeon 2. “Love is a fulfilment of life, without that, life is nothing.” ~ Ehsan Sehgal3. “What consumerism really is, at its worst is getting people to buy things that don't actually improve their lives.” ~ Jeff Bezos 4. “Treasure your relationships, not your possessions.” ~ Anthony J. D'Angelo 5.“Making money is certainly the one addiction I cannot shake.” ~ Felix Dennis Happiness Summarize the video using the beginnings of the senteces given below. 1. The video tells the story of… 2. The rats represent… 3. The video begins with… 4.To be happy, rats… 5.The rat’s happiness doesn’t last forever because… 6.Finally, … Complete the sentences below with the right pair. You may need to change the form of the words. persuade + bombard pursue + achieve tempt + promise attend + purchase search + find admire + pretend a) She pursued her goal of getting a law degree and after 5 years of hard work she achieved it. b) He wanted people to admire him so much that he even pretended to be a film star's son - can you believe it? c) We search for happiness in wealth and objects, so that’s why we can’t find it. d) Advertisers want to persuade us to buy more, so every day we’re bombarded with hundreds of ads. e) We are tempted by shiny slogans and adverts with celebrities that promise us a better life if we buy some products. f) If you want to attend Coachella, you must purchase tickets months in advance! Let's Talk! • To what extent, does the video show the truth about consumerism? • How are people tempted to purchase more and more? Where are we bombarded with ads the most? • Do you think that people are more satisfied with their possessions than relationships? • How difficult is it to get out of the rat race these days? • What is the goal that you’re pursuing in your life right now? • Do you think some people just pretend to be happy on social media to be admired by others? • What does happiness mean to you? What are three things that always make you happy? Idioms! On cloud nine To be extremely happy or excited. Make one’s day To make someone feel very happy. Feel blue To feel sad or depressed. Get a (real) kick out of something To enjoy something very much. Let one’s hair down To relax and enjoy oneself.