Open to Debate
The Pursuit of Happiness: Virtue or Pleasure?
May 17, 2024
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.
53:15
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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.
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.
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