Historical and Philosophical Foundations of Happiness PDF

Historical and Philosophical Foundations of Happiness Exploring the Roots of Positive Psychology GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 1 Learning outcome Develop an understanding of the fundamental theories and practices of happiness and positive psychology. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 2 Lecture Learn...

Historical and Philosophical Foundations of Happiness Exploring the Roots of Positive Psychology GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 1 Learning outcome Develop an understanding of the fundamental theories and practices of happiness and positive psychology. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 2 Lecture Learning Outcomes: 1. Demonstrate an understanding of the meaning and roots of the word "happiness.“ 2. Compare various perspectives on happiness. 3. Classify the view of happiness theory. 4. Describe the elements of happiness. 5. Outline the main sources of happiness. 6. Explain the benefits of happiness GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 3 In this course, our primary focus will be on the field of positive psychology, specifically exploring into the study of happiness and wellbeing. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 4 What is your definition of Happiness ?? GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 5 Happiness is…….. Mariam webster’s online dictionary A pleasurable or satisfying experience A state of wellbeing and contentment GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 6 Happiness in Positive Psychology: Happiness is…….. In positive psychology, happiness is often defined as a subjective and positive emotional state that involves an individual's overall sense of well-being and life satisfaction. It encompasses various dimensions, including positive affect (experiencing positive emotions), life satisfaction (evaluating one's life as a whole), and the absence of negative affect. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 7 Etymology of Happiness The roots of the word happiness can be traced back to the Old Norse word 'hap,’ generally meant good luck, chance, or fortune. It was associated with positive circumstances or events that were considered fortunate. The term "hap" has historical roots and is linked to the development of the modern English word "happenstance" and, later, "happiness.“ The term 'happiness' appeared in English around the early 16th century, following the use of the adjective 'happy' in the late 14th century, both implying luck and being favored by fortune. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing (McMahon, 2006) 8 Happiness Happiness is a subjective and multifaceted emotional and mental state characterized by feelings of joy, contentment, and satisfaction. It is often associated with a sense of wellbeing and fulfillment in various aspects of life, including personal relationships, work, and overall life circumstances. Happiness can result from positive experiences, meaningful connections, personal achievements, and a generally positive outlook on life. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 9 Perspectives on Happiness The interpretation of happiness and well-being varies among experts from different fields and specializations. 1. Philosophical View: Define happiness in terms of living a good life, or flourishing, rather than simply as an emotion. 2. Sociological Perspective: Defines happiness in social aspects and relationships in the society 3. Medical Insight: State of complete physical health and freedom of diseases. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 10 Perspectives on Happiness The interpretation of happiness and well-being varies among experts from different fields and specializations. 4. Economic Outlook: State of good economic condition. 5. Psychological Aspect: Good mental health and psychological well-being. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 11 Philosophy of Happiness Happiness is an increasingly prominent topic of interest across numerous academic fields. Philosophers discussing "happiness" generally focus on one of two views, each aligned with a distinct interpretation of the term: 1. A state of Mind (Hedonic) 2. A Life that Goes Well (Eudaimonic) These two perspectives represent different dimensions of the philosophical exploration of happiness, with one focusing on the immediate experience of joy or contentment, and the other addressing the overall quality and fulfillment of one's life. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 12 1. A State of Mind (Hedonic) Feel Good moments (funs, pleasure…) Happiness is a sense (psychological) State of mind when there is positive emotions. Happiness is considered a psychological state or emotional well-being. Philosophical inquiries revolve around understanding the nature of this mental state, including its components and how it can be achieved or sustained. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 13 2. A Life that Goes Well (Eudaimonic) A life fulfilled (purpose, growth, self-acceptance….) Happiness is not just a fleeting emotional state, but a broader concept associated with a flourishing and well-lived life. Philosophers explore what constitutes a good life, considering aspects such as virtue, meaning, purpose, and overall life satisfaction. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 14 Emily, a Nurse Happiness as a State of Mind: Happiness as a Life that Goes Well: Emily, a dedicated nurse, experiences moments of happiness during her shifts when she successfully comforts a distressed patient or helps someone on their path to recovery. In these instances, she feels a sense of joy and fulfillment, representing happiness as a state of mind linked to her immediate actions and interactions in the hospital. Beyond her day-to-day interactions, Emily's life as a whole is characterized by a sense of purpose and contribution. She has built strong connections with her colleagues, maintains a healthy work-life balance, and actively pursues professional development to enhance her nursing skills. Outside of work, Emily has a supportive social network, a fulfilling personal life, and practices self-care to ensure her overall well-being. In this broader context, Emily's life is going well, contributing to her sustained happiness. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 15 Emily, a Nurse Summary: In the first case, happiness is associated with Emily's immediate experiences and positive feelings during specific nursing activities. In the second case, happiness extends to encompass the overall quality of Emily's life, including her relationships, personal well-being, work-life balance, and a sense of fulfillment derived from her nursing career. This example illustrates the distinction between happiness as an emotional state in specific moments of work and happiness as a more comprehensive and enduring aspect of one's life. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 16 ELEMENTS OF HAPPINESS Happiness and wellbeing stem from a state of mind influenced by three interconnected elements. Interlinked Elements 1. Physical Health 2. Psychological or Mental Health 3. Social Health These elements are interlinked, creating a dynamic relationship where improvements in one element affect the others. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 17 ELEMENTS OF HAPPINESS Understanding the interplay of physical, psychological, and social elements provides a holistic perspective on happiness and wellbeing. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 18 Physical Health Measured by factors like height/weight ratio, body mass index, resting heart rate, and exercise recovery time. The foundation for active living campaigns and nutrition drives Psychological (Mental) Health State of well-being involving realizing abilities, coping with life's stresses, and working productively. Counseling or psychotherapy may be sought for addressing mental health difficulties and fostering emotional growth GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing Social Health Influenced by economic and social conditions shaping individual and group health differences. Social determinants are affected by public policies reflecting prevailing political ideologies 19 Physical and psychological health form the foundation for social health. The interplay of these elements is vital for positive emotions, strength, happiness, and overall wellbeing. The World Health Organization emphasizes the interdependence of physical, mental, and social well-being in its definition of health. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 20 What make you Happy ? List down your thoughts and ideas on happiness GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 21 What are the main sources of happiness? There is no standardly agreed-on list of causes of happiness, partly because happiness arises from a complex interaction of many factors. Most people agree that specific factors are crucial for human happiness in nearly every society. Any list will be somewhat arbitrary (subjective), and we could reasonably include other items. A brief list, summarized as SOARS can help in knowing the source of happiness (from Haybron’s Happiness: A Very Short Introduction) GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 22 What are the main sources of happiness? SOARS List: 1.Security: feeling reasonably secure—enough time, money, not under threat, etc. 2.Outlook: having the right attitudes—positivity, acceptance, caring for others, etc. 3.Autonomy: being having a sense of control over one’s life and daily activities 4.Relationships: having and enjoying good relationships, including a sense of community 5.Skilled and meaningful activity: regularly exercising your competence at worthwhile activities GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 23 What are the main sources of happiness? Money: Money has an impact on happiness, with a stronger link to life satisfaction than emotional well-being. It tends to significantly affect the happiness of poor individuals, while the effects are more modest for those outside poverty. The connection between money and happiness isn't just about buying power; it can also be attributed to factors like better-paying jobs that are often more skilled and meaningful. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 24 What are the main sources of happiness? Genes: Happiness could be linked to genetic attributes however this factor is debatable with valid perspectives and contextual validity. For example, A Research suggests that a number of behavior genetic studies have shown variation in happiness to be influenced by genes and indicated that long-term happiness is predominantly caused by genes. (Nes, R.B. Happiness in Behaviour Genetics: Findings and Implications. J Happiness Stud 11, 369–381 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10902-009-91456) GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 25 Benefits of Happiness GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 26 Benefits of Happiness Happiness can bring about various benefits, both for mental and physical well-being. Some of the potential benefits of happiness include: 1.Improved Mental Health: Happiness is associated with lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. It contributes to a positive mindset and emotional resilience. 2.Enhanced Physical Health: Happy individuals may experience better cardiovascular health, improved immune function, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Positive emotions can have a positive impact on the body. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 27 Benefits of Happiness 3. Increased Longevity: Studies suggest that happiness may be linked to longer life expectancy. Happy individuals tend to adopt healthier lifestyles, which can contribute to a longer and healthier life. 4. Better Relationships: Happy people often have more satisfying and supportive relationships. Positive emotions can foster empathy, compassion, and effective communication. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 28 Benefits of Happiness 5. Higher Productivity: Happiness has been linked to increased creativity, better problem-solving skills, and higher productivity in various aspects of life, including work and personal projects. 6. Resilience: Happy individuals are often more resilient in the face of challenges. They can bounce back from setbacks more effectively and maintain a positive outlook during difficult times. 7. Improved Societal Well-being: Happy individuals contribute to the overall well-being of society. They are more likely to engage in prosocial behaviors, volunteerism, and community involvement. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 29 Benefits of Happiness 9. Better Cognitive Function: Happiness is associated with improved cognitive function, including better memory, attention, and decisionmaking skills. 10. Increased Generosity: Happy people are more inclined to engage in acts of kindness and generosity, contributing positively to their communities and the well-being of others. It's important to note that the relationship between happiness and these benefits is complex, and individual experiences may vary. Additionally, happiness is a subjective and multifaceted concept, and its interpretation can vary among individuals and cultures. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 30 Happiness is an antidote for depression A positive outlook protects against depression, enhances health, and, when combined with skill and ambition, facilitates success. Generally, cheerful students tend to be more generous and helpful. Optimistic students, tracked over time, achieved higher incomes by age 35. Happy individuals attract others, while depressed ones often withdraw. Strong social connections and a sense of belonging significantly contribute to happiness. GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 31 Recap of this lecture Happiness Meaning, etymology and perspective of happiness Elements of happiness Sources and benefits of happiness GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing Philosophy and view of happiness theories 32 Self Reflection Time Exploring Personal Meaning of Happiness in E-Portfolios GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 33 References Sundriyal, R., & Kumar, R. (2019). Happiness and Wellbeing. International Journal of Indian Psychology. Retrieved from https://ijip.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/04-Happiness-andWellbeing-by-Ruchi-Sundriyal-Dr.-Ravindra-Kumar.pdf Wellbeing Research FAQ. (n.d.). Happiness and Wellbeing. Retrieved from https://www.happinessandwellbeing.org/wellbeing-researchfaq-2#4 Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. (n.d.). Happiness. Retrieved from https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/happiness/ GRD106- Happiness and Wellbeing 34