The quote by Mason Cooley holds two seemingly contradictory ideas about happiness. Firstly, it asserts that happiness is the ultimate goal of life. This is a widely accepted notion, as many people chase after what they believe will make them happy – be it wealth, success, love or personal accomplishment.
Secondly, the quote suggests that happiness is a chimera – an illusion or fabrication of the mind. The term “chimera” originates from Greek mythology and refers to a monstrous creature made up of parts from different animals. In modern usage, it often signifies something hoped for but impossible to achieve.
By combining these two statements, Cooley presents an intriguing paradox: if we’re all striving for happiness and yet it’s ultimately an illusion, what does that say about our pursuits? It could imply that our search for happiness might be futile or misguided because we’re chasing after something that doesn’t exist in the form we imagine.
Applying this idea to today’s world reveals its relevance and profundity. In our consumerist society where material wealth and social status are often equated with happiness, many people spend their lives pursuing these external markers only to find themselves unfulfilled when they attain them.
This perspective can also be applied in personal development contexts. It encourages introspection on what truly constitutes personal happiness beyond societal expectations or materialistic desires. By recognizing that traditional symbols of ‘happiness’ may not yield genuine contentment – as they can be chimeras – individuals might seek fulfilment through self-improvement, meaningful relationships and experiences instead.
In essence, this quote challenges us to question our perceptions of happiness: Is it really the ultimate goal? And if so – are we seeking it in places where it genuinely resides? Or are we chasing illusions?
 happiness is the goal of life, and (2) happiness is a chimera.){kind=link}