Guardian opinion piece questions if humanity has lost the capacity to enjoy itself amid global crises

An opinion article published in The Guardian on 8 May 2026 raises the question of whether society has forgotten how to have a jolly time. The piece, titled 'Is joy off the table?', appears within the 'First Dog on the Moon' column, a section of the publication known for featuring cartoons and opinionated commentary.

The author notes that some individuals suggest finding joy in the face of global doom hurtling can be viewed as an act of rebellion. However, the text explicitly clarifies that this is not actually true. Despite this distinction, the piece posits that the activity remains a fun one regardless of its political or moral classification.

The commentary engages with broader cultural discourses regarding the perceived loss of traditional leisure and merriment. This sentiment arises against a backdrop of climate change and geopolitical instability, where the concept of 'doomscrolling' and apathy often dominate the public conversation.

The Guardian author distinguishes between political rebellion and the personal act of seeking happiness. The argument suggests that seeking happiness does not require a revolutionary framework to be meaningful, even if it does not constitute a direct challenge to the status quo.

While the piece questions if humanity has lost the ancient knowledge of having a jolly time, it frames this observation as an opinion rather than an empirical fact. The text does not provide specific data or examples to prove that society has completely lost this ability, but rather highlights the sentiment that such a loss may have occurred.

The article concludes by reinforcing the idea that having fun amidst global catastrophe is a permissible choice. It asserts that while the act is not technically an act of rebellion, it remains a valid and enjoyable option for individuals navigating a complex global landscape.