Dr. Richard Easterlin

Biography

Professor Easterlin studies changes in subjective well-being across the life cycle, applying demographers' techniques and cohort analysis to social survey data. His research aims to clarify the role of various circumstances—such as living conditions, family life, health, job conditions, and personality—in determining well-being. He investigates the reasons behind the paradoxical relationship between income and subjective well-being, concluding that while there is a positive association between subjective well-being and income over time, improvements in subjective well-being occur with increases in income. Easterlin has contributed significantly to the literature on economics and well-being, authoring books and numerous journal articles that explore the intricate connections among happiness, income, and economic growth.

Research Interests