I: Evaluating affluence -- Economic welfare measurement and human well-being -- Passions and interests: self-control and well-being -- Choice: myopic and rational -- The economy of regard -- II: In the market place -- The mask of intimacy: advertising and the quality of life -- Body weight and self-control -- Household appliances and the use of time -- The American automobile frenzy of the 1950s -- Driving prudently: American and European -- III: Self and others -- Affluence and the pursuit of status -- Inequality hurts -- All you need is love? Mating since the 1950s -- Women and children last: the retreat from commitment.