What makes us happy? How does happiness vary across person and culture? What is happiness for?
Courses on happiness are a trend in American universities.
Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar used to teach Harvard University’s most popular course in 2006: a course on Positive Psychology. Titled 'PSY 1504: Positive Psychology' the course was described as:
“The course focuses on the psychological aspects of a fulfilling and flourishing life. Topics include happiness, self-esteem, empathy, friendship, love, achievement, creativity, music, spirituality, and humor.”
There is Prof. Raj Raghunathan's a course on the topic at the McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin as well as the Indian School of Business. He uses psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral decision theory to offer solutions for leading a life of happiness and fulfillment.
Then there is Professor Paul Bloom's 'The Good Life: Happiness' course at Yale.
University of Pennsylvania professor Martin Seligman summarizes the four types of happy life in his book 'Authentic Happiness':
1. The Pleasant Life: PLEASURE GOOD. PAIN BAD. Schedule more fun. 2. The Good Life: Do what you're good at and go as far down that rabbit hole of "flow" as you can, Alice. 3. The Meaningful Life: The Good Life + helps others. 4. The Full Life: Enjoy the pleasures of life, leverage your skills, seek flow, and use it to help people.
Everyone is so worried about being happy.
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