Pursuing Happiness

Pursuing Happiness: From Buddha to Positive
Psychology
From a self-help craze to government funded
scientific research, the pursuit of happiness has
become a 'hot topic' in both popular culture and
multiple fields of social science inquiry and
research. The "Science of Well-being" incorporates
happiness research in many areas including
economics, behavioral studies, and positive
psychology (the study of positive emotions,
positive experiences, character strengths, and the
practices that facilitate their development).

In this course we will research and analyze varied
perspectives on happiness from some of the major
theorists in these fields highlighting concepts
such as gratitude, optimism, mindfulness,
resilience, and creativity. We will also engage in
experiential learning and practical exercises to
increase well-being as a means of understanding
both the theories and ourselves.

We will critically explore and evaluate the roots
of the so-called "Science of Well-being" in Greek
philosophy and Eastern religions as well as within
the current atmosphere of commercialization and
commodification of happiness as a fashionable
trend.