For a civilisation so fixated on achieving happiness, we seem remarkably incompetent at the task. The advantages of modern life seem incapable of lifting our collective mood. Wealth doesn’t necessarily lead to happiness. Romance, family life, and work often bring as much stress as joy. We can’t even agree on what ‘happiness’ means. Are we engaged in a futile pursuit? Or are we just going about it the wrong way? Oliver has some of the most truthful and useful words about happiness in recent years.