A big part of the problem is we tend to be reductionist, linear and goal oriented, while reality is more cyclical, circular and feedback generated. So there is a tendency to go chasing after things, with little understanding of the context and consequences.

Money, for example, functions as a social contract and accounting device, enabling large societies, that we have come to see as a commodity to mine from society. The medium has become the message.

In the body, blood is the medium and fat is the store. They really shouldn't be mixed up.

Happiness is an emotion. Why don't they just hand out drugs, if that's the goal?