Recommended Book

Asian and Western Paths to Happiness: How to be Creative and Live the Good Life

Ng Aik Kwang

Asian and Western Paths to Happiness

Description of book

What is the good life? How can we live a meaningful existence on earth? Can money buy us happiness? What is the link between creativity and happiness? How do Asians and Westerners strive to be happy in their respective societies? In this new book, Dr Ng Aik Kwang provides a psychological perspective on these issues and more, by examining the cutting-edge research in positive psychology. This is a new field which uses psychological principles of behaviour to understand the positive, creative and emotionally-fulfilling elements of our lives. By the end of this book, readers will develop a scientific understanding of happiness and gain psychological insight on how to be a creative and happy person.

Profile of author

Dr Ng Aik Kwang is an accomplished author who has published many popular books on creativity and psychology. They include Why Asians are less creative than Westerners; Liberating the creative spirit in Asian students and Creative Problem-Solving for Asians. A psychologist by profession, Dr Ng has lectured on creativity and psychology in many advanced institutions of learning. They include the National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Institute of Technical Education, Singapore Management University and UniSIM. In addition, Dr Ng is also an academic-turned-entrepreneur who set up The Idea Resort to provide training on creative problem-solving.

Reviewer’s comment

  • The field of psychology has moved in the direction of mental health and well-being or Positive Psychology. Aik Kwang’s new book on happiness provides a forum for important and practical issues in Positive Psychology to be discussed. It challenges the reader to think about creating a happy and fulfilling life rather than being preoccupied with the dark side of human nature. An informative book, it contains many interesting facts and examples on happiness in the East and West. Readers who wish to be creative and live the good life will gain much insight from reading this new book on happiness.

    Dr Ooi Yoon Phaik, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore