I read an interesting article concerning the positive psychology movement in the NYT today. The way positive psychology is being applied in schools to “counteract” the negativity inherent in teaching children classics such as “Lord of the Flies” or “Romeo and Juliet” is very troubling. It seems needlessly prescriptive and moralistic. It may also work to increase subjective well-being. That is, it may very well achieve its objective and increase happiness. But at what cost? Is happiness worth a diminished understanding of the complexities of human nature? Is happiness worth a diminished potential for creative output? …Is pain so terrible?