If America's so rich, how'd it get so sad?
derekthompson.org
April 23, 2026
16 min read
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60/100
Summary
The University of Chicago economist Sam Peltzman reported a significant decline in self-reported happiness among the US population following COVID-19, with this trend persisting through 2024. Data from the General Social Survey indicates that the drop in happiness is both sudden and historically unprecedented.
Key Takeaways
- The United States has experienced a historically unprecedented decline in self-reported happiness since 2020, with levels remaining low through 2024.
- The Federal Reserve's measure of US worker satisfaction has reached its lowest level since 2014, and consumer sentiment hit an all-time low in the 70-year history of the University of Michigan economic survey.
- The decline in happiness is widespread across demographics, with a 10- to 15-point drop in well-being affecting nearly all groups, rather than being concentrated in traditionally vulnerable populations.
- The U.S. has fallen to its lowest ranking ever in the World Happiness Report, primarily due to a rapid decline in well-being among young people.
Community Sentiment
Positives
- The article highlights the importance of social relationships in driving happiness, suggesting that the decline in social interactions due to COVID has had significant negative effects.
- Many commenters recognize the complexity of societal issues, indicating a thoughtful engagement with the topic rather than simplistic explanations.
Concerns
- There is a pervasive sense of hopelessness regarding the impact of AI on careers, with many feeling demotivated by the technology's potential to disrupt job markets.
- The discussion reveals a spiritual crisis and a lack of meaningful connections, which many believe contribute to the overall sadness in society.