Happiness and the Good Life

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY 5 DIC 2011

Chapman University philosophy professor Martin defines happiness as loving one's life and valuing it in ways manifested by myriad enjoyments and a robust sense of meaning. In most cases, however, one's sense of happiness increases when it is part of a life consistent with virtues generally accepted by society. Drawing on positive psychology, whose practitioners study the character traits, emotions, and attitudes considered desirable by most societies, Martin places the virtues into three categories: valuing what is good, strength in pursuing good, and wisdom in understanding what is good. Authenticity, which Martin defines as a deep, honest, affirming, active participation in forming oneself, also plays a large role in contributing to happy lives. While authenticity and the virtues cannot guarantee happiness, and can even sometimes conflict with each other, when pursued together, they tend to reinforce each other. Using the work of Plato, Aristotle, and contemporary psychologists as guides, as well as the writings of Mary Shelley, Goethe, and even Mike Leigh's film Happy Go-Lucky as examples, Martin rigorously investigates the complex web of interactions between happiness, morality, and virtue.