Lessons for Living Well with Prof Bruce Hood

Video Description

What really makes us happy – and why do we so often get it wrong? At this special event, leading psychologist Professor Bruce Hood will explore what decades of scientific research can teach us about how to live well. Drawing on insights from his acclaimed book The Science of Happiness, Bruce will reveal why the things we think will make us happy often don’t – and what actually works instead. From the traps of materialism and social comparison to the power of gratitude, connection and purpose, you’ll learn simple but powerful lessons to shift how you approach your time, relationships and goals. Bruce blends fascinating psychology with practical insights that challenge common assumptions – and offer a more meaningful path to happiness. Whether you're looking for greater fulfilment, struggling with pressures of everyday life, or simply curious about what really works, this event will leave you wiser, uplifted and inspired to live more intentionally. This conversation with Dr Mark Williamson was recorded at an Action for Happiness live event on 8th December 2025. About The Speaker Bruce Hood is a Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Bristol, where he runs the popular "Science of Happiness" course, which uses scientific research to help students improve their mental well-being. He did his Ph.D. in neuroscience at Cambridge followed by appointments at University College London, MIT and a faculty professor at Harvard. He researches child development, origins of superstition, self-identity and how to be happier. Bruce is a Fellow of the American Psychological Society, the Royal Institution and the British Psychological Society. He gave the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures 'Meet Your Brain' broadcast to over 4 million viewers on the BBC and has made numerous media appearances on radio and TV. He has written popular science books published in over 30 countries including SuperSense, The Self Illusion, The Domesticated Brain and Possessed. His latest book is The Science of Happiness: Seven Lessons for Living Well.