Metamodern Meaning 87. Development & Philosophies of the Good (w/ Cheryl Armon)
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Aug 6, 2025 Dr. Cheryl Armon, a developmental psychologist and researcher known for her longitudinal studies on values, delves into how diverse philosophical conceptions of the good life influence psychological development. She presents five philosophical orientations, from hedonism to perfectionism, and explores their societal implications. Cheryl argues that a truly good person embodies psychological health and interdependence. Join their fascinating discussion on the evolving nature of what it means to lead a 'good life' and the future of this research.
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Every Adult Is A Philosopher
- Cheryl Armon found that adults' justifications for the good life cluster into a few repeatable philosophical orientations.
- Serious thinking adults unconsciously mirror historical philosophers when explaining what makes life good.
Working Person As Epicurean
- Cheryl uses an interviewee whose goal is freedom from anxiety to illustrate Epicurean classical hedonism.
- The subject values low worry and flexible leisure over wealth or status.
Purpose Links Self And Society
- Social hedonism (Mill) links personal flourishing to benefits for others through life projects.
- People justify meaningful, purpose-driven lives by claiming they help both self and society.
