Arthur C. Brooks is a distinguished author, public speaker, and academic whose career has been marked by significant contributions to the fields of economics, public policy, and happiness research. He began his academic journey at Georgia State University in 1998, where he served as an assistant professor of public administration and economics. His tenure at Syracuse University from 2001 to 2008 saw him rise to full professor and the Louis A. Bantle Professor of Business and Government Policy, during which he published over 60 peer-reviewed articles and authored four influential books.
In 2009, Brooks took on the role of the 11th President of the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), where he championed free enterprise and social entrepreneurship. His leadership at AEI was characterized by a commitment to refreshing organizational vision, which he articulated in a Wall Street Journal op-ed. Under his guidance, AEI became a prominent voice in public policy discussions, and he continued to influence the discourse on economic and social issues.
Since 2019, Brooks has been a professor at Harvard Business School and the Harvard Kennedy School, where he leads the Leadership & Happiness Laboratory. His popular course on Leadership and Happiness has garnered significant attention, reflecting his dedication to exploring the intersection of leadership and well-being. He has also contributed to The Atlantic with his column on happiness, further establishing his expertise in this vital area.
Brooks is a prolific author, with recent works including “From Strength to Strength” and “Build the Life You Want,” co-authored with Oprah Winfrey. His books have achieved bestseller status and have been widely recognized for their insights into happiness and personal fulfillment. Through his research, teaching, and writing, Brooks continues to inspire individuals and organizations to pursue meaningful lives and foster a culture of respect and understanding.