"Is anyone serious about the politics of happiness? David Cameron dipped a toe in the water, using the word lightly, but denying the hard policies it implies. Labour shies away from it, but should take up the challenge"

In this quote, Polly Toynbee raises a crucial viewpoint on the interaction between politics and the pursuit of societal joy. She starts by questioning whether political leaders really prioritize happiness as a policy goal. Polly Toynbee particularly points out David Cameron, the former British Prime Minister, recommending that while he acknowledged happiness as a concept, he did not totally dedicate to carrying out the significant policies required to promote it on a societal level. By mentioning that Cameron "dipped a toe in the water", Toynbee indicates that his engagement with the subject was superficial and lacked the depth needed for significant change.

Toynbee contrasts Cameron's technique with the Labour Party's evident hesitation to engage with happiness as a political goal, keeping in mind that they "shy away from it". She suggests that adopting joy as a policy top priority needs facing complicated challenges and making possibly difficult choices. The tip that Labour should "take up the obstacle" suggests Toynbee's belief that the party has a chance-- or maybe a commitment-- to lead in this area. It seems that Toynbee is advocating for a more profound expedition of joy as a legitimate political goal, offered its significance to the wellness and fulfillment of the people.

Overall, Toynbee's commentary recommends a review of how joy is dealt with in political discourse and policymaking. It advises political parties to move beyond rhetoric and accept the extensive and often "difficult" policies needed to foster happiness within society. The underlying message is one of support for political leaders to prioritize the wellness of people, recommending that the politics of happiness need to occupy a more considerable role in policy development and public debate. By doing so, she believes that political leaders can more effectively resolve the authentic needs and desires of their constituents, ultimately causing a much healthier, more satisfied society.