Abstract

VAN DER MERWE, Izak Johannes. Happiness - a primer for theological engagement. STJ [online]. 2015, vol.1, n.1, pp.291-319. ISSN 2413-9467.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17570/STJ.2015.V1N1.A15.

This essay discerns themes in the interdisciplinary study of happiness. We distinguish between the concepts of hedonic and eudaimonic happiness, as well as the concepts of well-being and quality of life. We also discuss the role of some determinants of happiness (income, relationships, life phase, geography and religion). We conclude by suggesting points of contact (the flourishing agent, determinants of happiness, anamnesis and eschatology, and the quest for meaning) where theological engagement can significantly clarify and enrich the happiness discourse.

Keywords : Happiness; Well-being; Life satisfaction; Quality of life; Flourishing.

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