Happiness Lessons of The Ancients: Aristotle
The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos09/14/20 • 28 min
He gave us biology, physics and drama... but Greek philosopher Aristotle also thought deeply about how humans can flourish and live happy lives of virtue.
Yale professor Tamar Gendler tells Dr Laurie Santos about Aristotle's wellbeing insights and how he recommended taking daily "baby steps" towards becoming the sort of happy, moderate person we aspire to be. A kind of ancient "fake it, 'til you make it" ethos.
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09/14/20 • 28 min
4 Listeners
The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos - Happiness Lessons of The Ancients: Aristotle
Transcript
Pushkin. We humans were already pretty complicated creatures, but living in the modern world has added a ton more complication to our lives. In past episodes of the Happiness Lab, we've looked at the effects of things like jobs, school grades, smartphones, and even alarm clocks on our wellbeing. These days, we have so much going on, so many things demanding our attention, and so many competing desires and emotions, that even if you know what you'
Happiness Lessons of The Ancients: Aristotle Top Questions Answered
What is the Happiness Lab podcast about?
The Happiness Lab podcast explores ancient philosophies and their relevance to modern well-being.
Who is considered the father of positive psychology?
Aristotle is considered the father of positive psychology and made significant contributions in various fields.
What is Aristotle's concept of eudaimonia?
Aristotle's concept of eudaimonia emphasizes spiritual flourishing and lasting happiness, distinct from short-lived hedonistic pleasure.
Does modern science support the idea that circumstances alone guarantee happiness?
No, modern science supports the idea that circumstances alone do not guarantee happiness.
What is phronesis according to Aristotle?
Phronesis, or practical wisdom, is the skill-based approach to achieving eudaimonia.
How is eudaimonia acquired according to Aristotle?
Eudaimonia is acquired through self-education and practice of virtuous actions, resulting in pleasure derived from those actions.
How can one build up happiness?
Building up happiness requires actively engaging with it and developing it as a skill.
What does Aristotle believe about developing virtuous character?
Aristotle believed in developing virtuous character through moderate actions and virtue as the middle way between two extremes.
How is friendship important for happiness according to Aristotle?
Friendship, based on mutual appreciation of deep values, is important for happiness and self-reinforcement.
What is the focus of Aristotle's book, the Nicomachean Ethics?
Aristotle's book, the Nicomachean Ethics, focuses on living a moral and happy life that contributes to a harmonious society.
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