Jeffrey Rosen argues for virtue as a source of happiness, referencing classical writers and the Founding Fathers. The debate explores whether happiness should come from virtue or pleasure, drawing from Stoics, Aristotle, and Locke. Discussions include the importance of self-control, long-term happiness versus short-term pleasures, and the balance between enjoyment and well-being in life.
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Quick takeaways
Pursuing happiness through virtue involves self-mastery and rationality, inspired by classical writers and Stoics.
Balancing pleasure and pain in life, through friendships, accomplishments, and knowledge, is crucial for overall well-being.
Prioritizing self-reflection, education, and deep reading over immediate gratification is essential to counter the culture of instant fulfillment.
Deep dives
The Pursuit of Happiness Through Virtue and Self-Mastery
The pursuit of happiness is intricately connected to the pursuit of virtue and self-mastery, according to the debate. Virtue, defined as self-mastery and control over unreasonable passions, leads to the calm well-being necessary to achieve one's potential and live a fulfilled life. This classical moral philosophy emphasizes the importance of self-control, focusing on deep reading for self-improvement, and resisting immediate gratification.
The Role of Pleasure in Achieving Happiness
Pleasure plays a crucial role in the pursuit of happiness, as argued by one perspective in the debate. The balance of pleasure over pain is considered essential for a good life. Different forms of enjoyment, such as friendships, accomplishment, and knowledge, contribute to overall well-being and happiness. The enjoyment derived from various activities and relationships is viewed as crucial for a fulfilling life.
Challenges of Immediate Gratification in Modern Society
The discussion highlights the challenges posed by immediate gratification in modern society, influenced by consumer culture and internet influences. There is a growing need for individuals to prioritize deep reading, reflection, and self-mastery to counteract the culture of instant fulfillment. The emphasis is placed on reclaiming time for contemplation, education, and self-improvement amidst a fast-paced and pleasure-seeking world.
Inequality, Well-Being, and Political Influence on Happiness
The impact of inequality, welfare safety nets, and political structures on happiness is a critical aspect discussed. The Nordic countries' focus on social welfare highlights the connection between societal well-being and reduced inequality. The debate underscores the importance of societal concerns for the less fortunate and the potential benefits of prioritizing collective well-being for overall happiness.
Incorporating Enjoyment and Wonder in the Pursuit of Happiness
The consideration of enjoyment, wonder, and awe as alternative measures of happiness is explored. The debate challenges the traditional pursuit of happiness through virtue and self-mastery, suggesting that experiences of wonder and mixed emotions could offer fulfilling and meaningful lives regardless of external circumstances. The value of embracing pleasure, happiness, and a range of emotions in life satisfaction is a key theme of the discussion.
Happiness is a complex emotion and mental state that can be achieved through virtue or pleasure. But should it be for the good of the individual or society? Those in favor of virtue point to the Stoics and the Founding Fathers, saying you should strive for a life of moral virtue and rationality. Those in favor of pleasure say everyone should be able to experience it and define their sources of happiness. Now we debate: The Pursuit of Happiness: Virtue or Pleasure?
Arguing Virtue: Jeffrey Rosen, CEO & President of the National Constitution Center; Author of “The Pursuit of Happiness: How Classical Writers on Virtue Inspired the Lives of the Founders and Defined America”
Arguing Pleasure: Roger Crisp, Professor of Moral Philosophy at the University of Oxford; Uehiro Fellow and Tutor in Philosophy at St. Anne's College, Oxford
Nayeema Raza, Journalist at New York Magazine and Vox, is the guest moderator.