This is Science?:
Though you might not be able to run away from your problems, moving to another state could be good for the soul. New research suggests U.S. states with wealthier, better educated and more tolerant residents are also happier on average.
The reasoning is that wealthy states can provide infrastructure and so it's easier for residents to get their needs met. In addition, states with a greater proportion of artists and gays would also be places where residents can freely express themselves.
Huh? Having a larger proportion of gays and artists means I can freely express myself, and thus be happier? So I should be able to express myself to the point of spluttering in San Fransisco, right? Well, no, I like San Fransisco, it's a fine place to eat, and sight see, but no, it's not the place for free expression. Party line, yes. Other than, no.
And since when does expressing yourself make you happy, anyway? Mel Gibson, happy guy? Janeane Garofalo, Bill Maher, giggly school kids? Come on. You could just as convincingly have argued that states with a large number of clarinet playing freckled girls are happier.
Anyway, look at the top of the list: Utah
Yeah, hotbed of gay artists there.
(by the way- anyone who has lived in Utah could tell you why it's nice: the Wasatch mountains and Mormons -- yes really, it's not the religion for me but the people are genuinely nice folks -- an opinion I wouldn't be foolish enough to express in San Fransisco)
What makes us happy:
A sense of community, and the coolest new bathing suit.
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