(Miami Herald) Andres Oppenheimer - Israel was ranked the 9th-happiest country in the world this year, despite its political polarization and constant fears of wars or terrorist attacks. Israeli psychology professor Tal Ben-Shahar explained why. First, Israel is a country with a very strong social network. "The No. 1 distinguishing characteristic in happy countries is a very strong social network where there is support from family and friends." Second, being a country that often has been attacked by its neighbors, and a people who have been victims of persecution for thousands of years gives many Israelis a sense of mutual reliance. Third, the Israeli army, in which service is mandatory for young men and women, helps unite Israelis and gives many a sense of purpose.
2022-03-21 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive