I think the fallacy comes from the idea that anything can make us happy. “Happiness” describes a subjective and transitory emotion, not a state like temperatur

I think the fallacy comes from the idea that anything can make us happy. “Happiness” describes a subjective and transitory emotion, not a state like temperature. Nothing — whether material goods or experiences — has an inherent quality that “makes” anyone happy. Whatever happiness a person derives comes from within. We can’t even agree on what we mean by “happiness” so arguing about what makes that happen seems pointless.