What is the scientific proof that a modest lifestyle is the path to happiness? Rayo said one example is Buddhist monks. They eat the same food and wear the same clothes every day. With years of meditation they lose interest in the "next new thing and the moving target," he said. "And their brain scans show that they are happier than most people in a scientifically measurable way."
This findings reveal the fact, if I can say, based in part on study of recent developments in psychology, biology, evolution and neuroscience, including brain scans. As everyone knows, Gary Becker, the Nobel laureate was well known for his nickname as an imperialist of economics, the study on happiness is also far from usual domain of dollar and cents. But considering the point, I do agree with them.
Much of what we call 'happiness' is relative and based on comparison. As Rayo commented, "We are always comparing what we have to something else. But, we're not anticipating that no matter what we have we will always be comparing it to something else. In fact, we're not even aware that we are doing this." If there is something can be compared with each other, there might arise a feeling related to happiness or unhapiness. Rayo also added, "the psychology literature and surveys clearly show that not all happiness is ephemeral and geared to endlessly moving targets. With nonmaterial things, the target does not move. Your social network, family and friends can bring permanent happiness. Longtime relationships can bring long-term satisfaction."
In order to give a full explanation on their findings, Rayo adopted an easy to understand example of buying a new and bigger house. Rayo said, "When consumption extends beyond your needs and the goal is to impress others, you should be suspicious; it will not lead to happiness." That is to say, comparation and seeking of beyond needs might not be a sustainable source of happiness.
It seems that Rayo believes and follow this as a guideline in daily life. He lives in an apartment in downtown Chicago that is a 10-minute train commute from his office. He doesn't have a car. His condo is a modestly sized, two-bedroom unit. He spends a lot of time with his wife, he exercises, but he confessed, "I'm not immune to status seeking. I spend a lot of time working."
What is similarity between the monks and Rayo, as my personal understanding, is they are blind to some aspects on materials, or they are pursuing something beyond materials. They feel happier than the ordinary people, like you and me.