I thought this had to be a joke - but no - here is the World Database of Happiness ("a continuous register of scientific research on subjective appreciation of life.") Browse the Bibliography of Happiness, or use the data from the Catalogue of Happiness Correlates. "Happiness," the editors tell us, "is a highly valued concept in present day Western society. Not only does everybody agree that it is better to be happy than unhappy, but studies on values show that present day people prioritize happiness." And now you have the data to back it up. Thanks, Liz.