Ep 7. Get Happy

Ted is a brilliant scientist, working for Veridian Dynamics - a research company which lacks transparency and morality. However, in season 1, episode 7 "Get Happy," Ted is facing a new challenge that he never thought he would handle.

At Veridian Dynamics, employees are commonly expected to work long hours, sacrificing their personal lives for the betterment of the company. This long and grueling work schedule is causing a significant amount of stress on the employees. In response, Veronica, Ted's boss, orders that Veridian Dynamics' resident psychologist Dr. Bhamba to administer a drug called Rhapsody to the employees to make them happier.

Ted has doubts about the efficacy of the drug and is apprehensive about administering it to his coworkers. However, as a loyal employee, Ted follows his orders and helps Dr. Bhamba distribute the blue liquid Rhapsody to his coworkers. To his surprise, the drug causes his coworkers to become excessively happy and cheerful.

Ted notices significant changes in his coworkers' behavior from the moment they take the drug. Ted's friend Lem, for example, finds himself without the usual issues that trouble him, suddenly seeing everything as rainbows and sunshine. Linda, Ted's lab partner, who is chronically stressed out and never gets enough sleep, seems to be getting along with everybody, seemingly enjoying life more than ever before.

However, as Ted continues to observe his coworkers on Rhapsody, he starts to realize that the drug doesn't necessarily produce the happiness it promises. Instead, the happiness is more of a facade, covering up the employees' true emotions.

Meanwhile, Veronica is under immense pressure from her boss to cut expenses. In an effort to do so, she insists that Dr. Bhamba start synthesizing the drug in-house, using cheaper ingredients to save money. However, the quality of the drug drastically decreases, causing the employees to become depressed and completely shut down.

Ted is forced to confront the other side of the happiness he has been observing as his peers begin to suffer from the drug's ill effects. Dr. Bhamba believes that increasing the dosage of Rhapsody will solve the problem, but Ted feels differently. He comes up with a plan to help his coworkers without causing more harm by freely distributing sugar pills as a placebo to counteract the negative effects of the drug.

In conclusion, season 1, episode 7 of Better Off Ted is a thought-provoking exploration of the concept of happiness. The episode highlights the importance of transparency in the workplace and the dangers of adopting an "ends justify the means" mentality. It also showcases the importance of loyalty to one's coworkers and the ability to stand up for what is right, even when it goes against the demands of one's superior. If you're a fan of workplace comedies that impart valuable lessons, this episode is highly recommended.