The Thomistic Institute
Affliction, Sorrow and Human Flourishing | Prof. Thomas Hibbs
Oct 21, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Thomas Hibbs, a distinguished philosopher and author from Baylor University, dives into the profound connections between happiness, sorrow, and human flourishing as articulated by Aquinas and Aristotle. He argues that true happiness comes from the pursuit of our potential rather than passive contentment. Hibbs also explores how mastering skills in areas like sports and music fosters moral growth and emphasizes the importance of understanding sorrow to cultivate virtue and enrich our human experience.
41:59
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Quick takeaways
- Happiness, according to Aristotle and Aquinas, is an active pursuit leading to human flourishing through meaningful engagements rather than mere pleasure.
- Aquinas emphasizes that sorrow, while complex, can be transformed into opportunities for moral growth and healing through community support and shared experiences.
Deep dives
The Nature of Happiness
Happiness, as described by Aristotle and Aquinas, is not merely a passive state of contentment but an active pursuit leading to human flourishing. Both philosophers argue that the ultimate goal of human life is happiness, which is desired for its own sake rather than as a means to an end. This comprehension of happiness contrasts with common interpretations that equate it with pleasure or the completion of tasks. Instead, happiness is found in the experience of engaging in meaningful activities that require skill and collaboration, reminiscent of the joy felt during an athletic performance or a musical ensemble.
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