Theories of Happiness ─ An Anthology

Theories of Happiness: An Anthology introduces readers to many difficult philosophical questions surrounding the concept of happiness. With historical and contemporary readings in both philosophy and the social sciences, the anthology reflects a dialogue between ideas, providing for a rich conversation that brings out the key insights and strengths of several competing views. The three major philosophical theories of happiness are represented: Hedonism, the view that happiness consists in positive mental states such as pleasure; Desire Satisfactionism, according to which it is by getting what we want that we are happy; and Eudaimonism, which says that true happiness is a matter of living a complete and flourishing life.Each of the included readings is contextualized by the editors and situated to speak to the larger issues, including: the value of happiness and its connection to well-being; the relationship of happiness to morality; whether happiness can be accurately and meaningfully measured; and whether there are universal standards for a happy life.

Jennifer Wilson Mulnix is Associate Professor of Philosophy at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. M.J. Mulnix is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Salem State University.