New book reveals how modern prosperity is making us more miserable despite material gains, says leading researcher

Australian Academic Press

• The book explores why psychological distress is rising in high-income societies despite record prosperity, comfort, and longevity.

• Drawing on decades of psychological and social research, Dr Humphrey argues that modern values — individualism, consumerism, and constant competition — have created “psychologically impoverished” environments.

• The book identifies culture itself as a hidden risk factor for mental ill-health and outlines practical steps for restoring connection, meaning, and balance.

• Cultural Deception links growing mental-health problems to cultural changes similar to how public-health experts once connected obesity to lifestyle and environment.

• The book appeals to readers of Lost Connections, Stolen Focus, and The Happiness Hypothesis, combining research depth with an accessible writing style.

Despite unprecedented wealth and progress, people in high-income nations are increasingly anxious, lonely and unfulfilled. A new book by social researcher Dr Ashley Humphrey reveals why.

In Cultural Deceptions: How Progress is Making Us Miserable — and How We Can Get Back on Track (Australian Academic Press, 2025), Humphrey argues that modern culture itself has become a hidden risk factor for mental ill-health.

“We’ve created a world that rewards busyness and self-promotion but leaves us disconnected and dissatisfied,” says Humphrey.

Blending psychological research, social critique and hopeful guidance, Cultural Deceptions explores how cultural values such as individualism, consumerism and competition have reshaped what we think happiness means — and how readers can rediscover meaning, gratitude and connection in their own lives.

A bold, evidence-based look at how modern culture’s obsession with success and consumption quietly undermines our psychological wellbeing.

Available exclusively in Australia and New Zealand from www.ausapress.com

Stephen May, Publisher – Australian Academic Press
📧 [email protected]