Two Kinds of Happiness

Hedonic happiness is based on the concept of pleasure and enjoyment. It is the experience of positive emotions such as joy, pleasure, and contentment. Hedonic happiness is often associated with short-term experiences and the pursuit of pleasure and self-gratification. Examples of hedonic happiness include things like eating a delicious meal, going on a vacation, or buying a new outfit.

 

Eutemonic happiness, on the other hand, is based on the concept of living a meaningful and fulfilling life. It is the experience of positive emotions that arise from living in accordance with one's values, cultivating personal growth, and contributing to the greater good. Eutemonic happiness is often associated with long-term experiences and pursuing personal growth, purpose, and social responsibility. Examples of eudemonic happiness include things like helping others, pursuing a passion, or living a life that aligns with one's values.

 

In summary, hedonic happiness is based on the pursuit of pleasure and enjoyment, while eudemonic happiness is based on the pursuit of personal growth and meaningful life.

 

Which happiness should we pursue?

 

It's important to have both hedonic and eudaimonic happiness in our lives. Pursuing pleasure and enjoyment can bring us positive emotions and contribute to our overall well-being, but it's also important to have a sense of purpose, personal growth, and social connection to experience eudaimonic happiness.

 

Research suggests that having a balance of both hedonic and eudaimonic happiness can lead to higher levels of overall well-being and life satisfaction. For example, someone who enjoys spending time with friends and family (hedonic happiness) and also engages in volunteer work or pursues a meaningful career (eudaimonic happiness) may have a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment in their life.

 

In short, both hedonic and eudaimonic happiness are important components of a fulfilling and happy life, and finding a balance between the two can lead to greater well-being and satisfaction.