In his book "He: Understanding Masculine Psychology," Robert A. Johnson suggests that psychological experiences such as suffering and happiness are heavily influenced by comparison. This means that our feelings of well-being or distress are often shaped by how we perceive ourselves in relation to others, our expectations, and societal standards.

Johnson indicates that the pursuit of happiness or the experience of pain is not solely an internal state but is deeply tied to external benchmarks. Thus, understanding the nature of these comparisons can provide insight into our emotional lives, allowing for a deeper recognition of what drives our feelings and how we might navigate them more effectively.