Fall 2014 Happiness Class Study Questions

Return to Happiness

SEP 4

1. What is the relationship between classical greek philosophical culture (from Pericles to Alexander) and traditional greek culture concerning happiness?

2. How does the Symposium represent Plato's view of happiness?

3. How does Aristotle alter Plato's view?

4. In what ways are the Hellenic schools (Stoics and Epicureans) continuing and changing the classical philosophical model?

5. What are some of the structural features of the Greek models of happiness?

SEP 9

1. How does Aristotle set up the problem of happiness? What are the key steps in the argument?

2. Critically evaluate Aristotle's view in light of criticisms developed in class.

3. What is the connection between our nature and the possibilities for happiness? Is human happiness part of a "plan" for humans?

SEP 11

1. How does Haidt contrast and evaluate the two main strategies for pursuing happiness (internal and external)?

2. What are some of the key happiness makers and unmakers in Haidt's view?

3. What does it mean to say that we have a "set point" for our happiness?

4. What is the difference between hedonic adaptation and the hedonic treadmill?