As Thanksgiving approaches, a new study out of New York University puts a bit of bitter in the sweet potato pie.  It says that most Americans value “eudemonia” above looking out for their family.

 

Yes, I know.  What the deuce is eudemonia?

 

Simply put: it’s a Greek term meaning pursuit of self-interest; leisure, self-care, pleasure.

 

So it’s off to grandmother’s house we go, unless there’s a fun party available.

 

The study makes sense.  The internet has caused a massive shift away from the “public good” and towards individual gratification.  Outside world?  Why bother? Trivial social media pursuits supply endless diversions from real-world challenges.

 

Like quirky family people.  Why do we need them?  Not worth the trip.

 

Luckily, most Americans hang on to some semblance of family tradition, but that is receding, and we don’t need a study to see it.  Even The Addams Family understands that clan ties strengthen character.

 

Eudemonia?  Save it for New Year’s Eve.

 

See you this evening for the No Spin News.