We've always heard that it is better to give than to receive. And the research is there to prove the old adage is right. A post at PsyBlog has links to several studies about this phenomenon.
The consequences of this notion can work in a circle. Not only do you want to buy gifts that bring happiness to others, it will make them even more happy to know that they gifts they give you are treasured. Link
But why? Why is it that spending our money on others—prosocial spending—makes us happier?
It's partly because giving to others makes us feel good about ourselves. It helps promote a view of ourselves as responsible and giving people, which in turn makes us feel happy. It's also partly because spending money on others helps cement our social relationships. And people with stronger social ties are generally happier.
The consequences of this notion can work in a circle. Not only do you want to buy gifts that bring happiness to others, it will make them even more happy to know that they gifts they give you are treasured. Link
Didn't we all know this as children? If you wanted someone to be your friend, you would give them something. That's basically where bribery comes from.
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Don't tell any Ayn Rand fans . . .
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I'm an Ayn Rand fan, and I love to voluntarily spend money on other people that I know and love. I don't like to be forced to spend on others though.
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And yet we all hate Secret Santa office gift exchanges.
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