HAPPINESS/HUMAN FLOURISHING (ECC281)

 Prerequisite: None. Ancient Greek philosophy holds that happiness (ε?δαιμον?α) is the soul’s highest good. But happiness means more than instant gratification or indulging in what makes us feel good in the moment. Happiness as ε?δαιμον?α conveys the meaning of mental wellness, overall health, life-satisfaction, and the absence of anguish or mental agitation. This course explores wellness and human flourishing as desirable goods to which various habits and practices lead. Among other questions to be considered: What do texts in classical philosophy and contemporary psychology speak to the human predicament and desire for happiness or flourishing? How are habits such as resiliency, wisdom, vulnerability, courage, moderation, hope, solidarity, rest, creative engagement and love important to human flourishing and overall wellness (ε?δαιμον?α)? How are these shaped by our sense of place, identity, and community in relation to other people? How does happiness as well-being relate to human experiences such as suffering, grief, anguish, loneliness, or forms of trauma? Health, Fitness, and Well-Being Capability. (Offered in alternate years).