Technology-Assisted Happiness
There is a vast amount of literature that attempts to address the problems of unhappiness, and every sect and cult promises solutions to its adherents. Sufferings, miseries and conflicts, however, refuse to go away. Ask anyone in a mall, park, or sitting in front of a television and you’re likely to meet someone in search of happiness. Even the richest, the best and the most accomplished people occupying positions of power and influence are unhappy; so what can one say of those who struggle just to make ends meet?
‘Khush Raho’, which translates to ‘be happy’, is a traditional benediction in North India, the region where I was born and raised. It is widely believed that joy and well–being are the most valuable aspects of life. Happiness has a profoundly positive impact on various aspects of life. Happy individuals tend to have stronger and more satisfying relationships, enjoy improved physical and mental health and lead fulfilling and enjoyable lives.
The area of positive psychology has given rise to numerous divergent perspectives regarding what it means to be happy. We can’t seem to find happiness. No matter how hard we try, nothing—regardless of what happens—ever seems able to be able to make us truly happy. Doing what you enjoy, being surrounded by people you like and love, and not worrying about what lies ahead are often seen as the hallmarks of happiness. Yet, when I watch my grandson Agastya and other children completely immersed in computer games, it makesme wonder whether humanity has ever truly cracked the code to happiness.
We live in two worlds—the external world of our observations and experiences, and the internal world of our thoughts and feelings. Money, material possessions, status and acclaim are ‘extrinsic’ pleasures—those we seek when we look forfulfilment outside ourselves. Regrettably, the joy of newly discovered contentment does not last long. The more we try to‘find’ happiness, the more elusive it becomes. This phenomenon, which is a significant obstacle to experiencing lasting happiness, is referred to by psychologists as ‘hedonic adaptation’.
Conversely, when we strive to make ourselves happy, we direct our attention towards pursuits that generate pleasant emotions, nurture inner strengths, and foster social connections through our active engagement with the world. Neither acclaim nor financial reward is our goal. Simply enjoying ourselves while being completely absorbed in our work is enough. Regardless of our life circumstances, we can always find happiness by consistently engaging in self-rewarding, meaningful hard work.
It goes against the grain of what most of us have been led to believe—that our happiness is directly proportional to how easy life is and that we require life to be a specific way to be happy. The correlation between perseverance, intrinsic motivation, and long-term enjoyment, however, was foretold in the Shrimad Bhagawad Gita when Lord Shri Krishna declared, “आत्मनि एव आत्मना तुष्टः स्थितप्रज्ञः तदा उच्यते“, meaning that one whosemind finds contentment in the Self alone, is a man of steady wisdom (Shloka 2.55).
Know yourself as the sole provider of your happiness. ‘Behave’, an outstanding book written by Robert Sapolsky, a Russian-American professor of biology and neurology at Stanford University, establishes the fact that happiness is rooted in biology. In varying degrees and combinations, the neurochemicals and physiological sensations produced by our brains and bodies are what we perceive as pleasure, enjoyment, contentment, love, ecstasy, joy, delight, and every other form of happiness.
Does this imply that these feel-good chemicals and experiences can be accessed at will? Can we, through quantifiable autotelic actions, consciously trigger them ourselves?
Reading Sapolsky’s book, I learnt that our bodies can generate an adrenaline boost when we challenge ourselves, such as doing a task in less time than usual. This excitatory hormone boosts our confidence, energy and motivation. When we undertake something very challenging, such as completing a physical exercise or solving a puzzle, our brains release a powerful combination of norepinephrine, epinephrine (also known as adrenaline) and dopamine. When we experience all three of these neurochemicals simultaneously, we feel elated, proud and content—happy on the inside.
Another insight the book offers is that our brains are filled with dopamine, a chemical linked to pleasure and reward, whenever we succeed in making someone laugh or smile. The effect is amplified when we ourselves share in the laughter or smiles. The hormone oxytocin is released into the bloodstream whenever our physical movements are synchronised with those of another person, for example, in a sporting event or a dance. We experience euphoria and joy because of this neurochemical. The vagus nerve, which causes us to feel emotionally ‘choked up’ in our chests and throats, and the pilomotor reflex, which gives us pleasant chills and goosebumps, are both stimulated when we seek out what we might call ‘powerful’ and ‘moving’ stories, media, or live performances.
Not many of us consciously seek to activate these systems, and what we do unconsciously is outright dangerous. Addictive medications and alcohol, tasty but harmful food, compulsive shopping, and countless other shortcut–happiness behaviours eventually lead to their diminished effectiveness, financial ruin, or even death. A culture of consumerism, based on the false promise of extrinsic rewards, is leading people onto a global hedonic treadmill—leaving them gasping and, in some cases, collapsing.
In her outstanding book, ‘Reality Is Broken: Why Games Make Us Better and How They Can Change the World’, young computer-game designer Jane McGonigal (born 1977) claims that the solution to this futile struggle is at hand. There is an infinite supply of resources for creating happiness if we prioritise intrinsic rewards over external ones. According to her, people experience misery and suffering in their day-to-day lives because the four-dimensional intrinsic rewards provided by games are often unavailable in real life, particularly in places such as families, workplaces and public spaces. She identifies these four rewards in everyday activities, which include satisfying work, experiencing success, social connection and finding meaning. These four forms of intrinsic rewards are the bedrock of a perfect human experience.
Computer games can be designed to offer these four intrinsic rewards. It is no wonder that the wisdom of human evolution is unfolding, and children are discovering it for themselves, even without being explicitly taught about it. Ultimately, playing games is a quintessential example of autotelic behaviour. Whenever we play, it is always out of pure enjoyment. Playing a game is the most valid form of ‘Nishkama Karma’, i.e., desireless action (provided it is not being played for money). Where else in life do you see the winner and loser shaking hands at the end of the game, relaxing together over a meal, leaving behind their victory and loss?
Games offer a structured way to activate the right regions of the brain. Good games reliably, affordably and safely provide us with the four things we desire most. Most importantly, they demonstrate that players aren’t trying to escape reality through gaming; instead, their real lives are becoming more fulfilling as a result of their efforts. Some people engage in gamblingby playing games designed for that purpose, but that is a total misuse of the modality.
Don’t scold your children and grandchildren for playing computer games; rather, join them and pick a few to get rid of your boredom. This will reactivate the ageing mind and restore the decline and deficit in hormone and neurotransmitter production by the body. You can indeed create happiness for your consumption with the help of some excellent video games. Like everything else, moderation is the key here also. Too much of everything is always harmful, and games are no exception.
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In earlier centuries, happiness was often viewed through spiritual, philosophical, or social perspectives. Communities found joy in rituals, storytelling, and shared labour. With the Industrial Revolution came new machines that eased physical labour but also brought alienation and new types of stress. The 20th century saw the rise of consumer technologies—radios, televisions, automobiles—each promising convenience and pleasure, yet also exposing individuals to constant advertising and shifting social dynamics. The digital revolution of the late 20th and early 21st centuries has introduced a dizzying array of tools designed specifically for self-improvement and well-being. These range from step counters and calorie trackers to mood journals and gratitude apps. Such tools enable users to monitor and manage their physical and emotional states with unprecedented accuracy.
The idea of technology-assisted happiness works best when technology acts as a facilitator rather than a replacement for inherently human experiences. The most successful interventions are those that augment, rather than supplant, our natural capacities for joy, resilience, and connection. Wearables can motivate healthier lifestyles, but cannot replace intrinsic motivation. Mental health apps offer support but may not substitute for traditional therapy when needed. Social media can enhance relationships but requires mindful use to avoid pitfalls of comparison and distraction. Ultimately, happiness is a complex, multifaceted experience. Technology can provide tools and environments that nurture well-being, but it cannot manufacture happiness in a vacuum. The art lies in striking a balance—leveraging the best of innovation while remaining attentive to our timeless needs for meaning, purpose, and belonging.
Excellent insight into the ingredients of happiness, Prof Tiwariji !
Your ability to unify the spiritual, biological and technological aspects to provide a capsule of wisdom is outstanding !!
Dear Arun bhai, Another masterpiece blog on Happiness. It’s easy to talk about but difficult to practise in life and achieve happiness even without success in external life and goals.
Adding happiness through sports and games brings true value and a fruitful narrative for genuine happiness. Best Wishes, Regards.
You’ve woven neuroscience, scripture, psychology, and even gaming into a seamless tapestry of insight on the pursuit of happiness. Reading it felt like sitting beside you, learning not just from your words but from your wisdom and lived experience. The distinction between extrinsic and intrinsic joy, and your gentle reminder that happiness isn’t found but cultivated through meaningful action, truly stuck a chord. Your conclusion about video games offering a surprising route to fulfilment was especially refreshing. Thank you, as always, for stretching our minds and softening our hearts.
Very interesting perspective Arunji. Never thought of Computer games from this angle. Also, as always, beautiful blend of science, spirituality, practicality and modernism in your articulation.
Personally, I am not a digital gamer. Whenever I use to play computer games, images used to stick more with me through the subsequent quieter moments. While physical games appeared to give me more positive mental, physical and psychological returns. But may be, I should try PC Games again some time soon.
Yes, Sir, video games can be beneficial for mental fitness by improving cognitive functions, problem-solving skills, and even potentially offering stress relief and social interaction. Many games require precise movements and quick reactions, which can improve hand-eye coordination. Certain games, particularly those that involve navigation or puzzle-solving, can enhance spatial awareness. However, excessive gaming can also have negative impacts, so finding a healthy balance is crucial. But it is true for every virtue and good thing in life.
Games are often designed with clear goals and reward systems, providing a sense of achievement and satisfaction upon completion of tasks or levels. Playing video games can stimulate changes in brain structure and function, including increases in gray matter in areas associated with spatial navigation, strategic planning, and fine motor skills. Video games can be designed to simulate real-world situations and challenges, helping players develop strategies and problem-solving skills that can be applied in everyday life.
Thank you Sir for sharing this blog.
My father always told me- happiness is a state of mind.
Finding happiness in the bigger gains will not always give peace and satisfaction.
It’s the smaller things in life. We need to cherish those small, mundane moments. The ones that release the happy hormones.
Your blog tells us to balance technological promise with spiritual depth.
A much-needed guidance in 2025.
Respected Arun Sir, This is an exceptionally significant article which is highly relevant in today’s extremely competitive world with stressful lifestyles. It’s very important to be reminded that undergoing or creating happy moments are the real achievements rather than materialistic goals. We need to enjoy whatever we are doing be it work, sports, or arts, and spare more time for family & genuine friends.
Dear Sir, “Thank you for such a deep and beautifully articulated reflection on the pursuit of happiness. Your ability to blend spiritual philosophy, modern psychology, and personal experience makes this piece both intellectually rich and emotionally moving. I especially appreciated the insights around intrinsic rewards and how meaningful engagement—not material gain—is the true source of joy.
The way you connect the ancient wisdom of the Gita with the science of neurochemistry and the modern relevance of games is remarkable. It reminded me of my childhood—how much I enjoyed playing games like carrom, ludo, and video games, especially Contra & Mario, not just for fun but because they offered a sense of achievement, connection, and satisfaction. Even today, I find that playing a good game helps me disconnect from the chaos of the day and reconnect with myself.
Your call to understand and embrace the value of gaming, especially across generations, is something I deeply resonate with. Rather than scolding children for gaming, joining them with curiosity and moderation might be the key to building bonds and rediscovering happiness ourselves. Thank you again for encouraging us to seek joy not outside, but within—through learning, play, and purposeful action.” Warm Regards,
A beautifully written reminder that happiness isn’t something we find, it’s something we create. In a world obsessed with external rewards, the emphasis on intrinsic joy through purpose, play, and meaningful engagement is robust. The integration of positive psychology with Robert Sapolsky’s insights into the neurobiology of happiness shows that happiness is as much a science as it is an art. For me, the most refreshing point and a genuinely new perspective was the idea of how screen time and gaming can be turned into shared joy, learning, and connection.
Computer games / technology assisted tools to stimulate the brain are often less talked and advertised. Apart from keeping one self active, it prevents the onset of different ailments .
For kids and adults alike these tools are not only to sharpen the brain, but are also used to analyse the we have played a game and the options that were open…. thus seeing the problem in a different perspective.
Yes, we should encourage not only children but adults too to try out these new technology ‘tools’ and not games
It is a pity that the android play store has more of the ‘transformer games’ but less of new technology ‘games’ to analyse, improve. retain and more important improve the mental health and preventing them from becoming senile.
A very good article indeed.
Best wishes to all.
Sir, another masterpiece! In the pursuit of happiness, ordinary people cling to all mundane pleasures, only ‘extra’-ordinary people find true happiness/bliss by understanding that -sharing is caring, ‘ Less is more’. I am amazed to read how beautifully you described the meaning of happiness within some good video games, which is often considered detrimental to children’s health. However, yes – it depends on both screen time moderation and the nature of the game.
E.G.- the Dopamine boost comes from completion of a challenging productive work, but the same dopamine can be boosted by drugs and sexual illicit contents.
Dear Arunji, Your reflection on what constitutes happiness is very classic and very thought-provoking.
Games, including video games, certainly play a dominant role in raising our level of understanding and experiencing happiness.
I have seen that most happy people are those who have learnt to live gracefully with their losses.
Games teach us to take losses in our stride. As Lord Krishna says in the Bhagvad Gita, Equanimity in gain and loss makes one Sthir Pragya, and that alone brings us eternal happiness. I congratulate you on your excellent blog.
Thank you Arun ji on elaborating important subject of Happiness and how video games can help.
Dear Prof, Interesting piece about games and their effect on inner satisfaction. Thanks!
Dear Sir, I find the topic fascinating, particularly in recommending a game that is often categorised as detrimental to health and intellect. I liked the new definition/dimension of NISHKAMA KARMA. I would rather call it Technology Assisted NISHKAMA KARMA!!! As you rightly said, moderation is the key aspect. To set this, elderly supervision is definitely required, and grandparents can help and can get helped by enjoying the happiness they derive while playing with their grandchildren. The grandkids and grandparents share different kinds of rapport and relationships. Both of them want a lot of latitude with one another. Sir, thank you once again for bringing out a blog on the latest and interesting topic.
Arunji, Very thoughtful and layered reflection on the pursuit of happiness—rooted in ancient wisdom, modern science, and the everyday realities of life. A timely reminder that true happiness lies within.
Khush Raho is the most needed blessing in current times, to remind everyone to be happy!!
As always, your insights are relatable. Even though I am not an avid gamer, I have had positive connections with teens over video games. They adore it and see it as a pleasant way to interact with adults.
‘Games offer a structured way to activate the right regions of the brain. Good games reliably, affordably and safely provide us with the four things we desire most. Most importantly, they demonstrate that players aren’t trying to escape reality through gaming; instead, their real lives are becoming more fulfilling as a result of their efforts. Some people engage in gamblingby playing games designed for that purpose, but that is a total misuse of the modality’, if only this call was headed by all, parents and parents!
Thank you so much Prof Tiwari for this poignant yet timely reminder.