

29. Is Modern Wellbeing Making You Less Happy? - with Prof. Jacob Phillips
Jun 27, 2025
Professor Jacob Phillips, a systematic theology expert at St. Mary's University, dives deep into the complexities of modern well-being versus true happiness. He discusses the rise of therapeutic trends and their paradoxical link to declining mental health. Phillips shares his journey from evangelicalism to Catholicism, exploring the church's teachings on human flourishing. He critiques contemporary wellness practices and emphasizes the importance of community and spirituality in achieving genuine well-being, challenging listeners to rethink their pursuit of happiness.
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Jacob Phillips' Conversion Journey
- Jacob Phillips converted from Baptist evangelicalism after a period of youthful rebellion and searching for purpose.
- His conversion involved deep theological study, especially Augustine's Confessions, leading to Catholicism in 2008.
Rise of Well-Being vs Mental Health
- Well-being language has sharply increased in culture since 2010 but mental health worsens simultaneously.
- This paradox raises theological questions about modern conceptions of well-being and true human flourishing.
Limits of Physical Health Metaphors
- Mental health metaphors borrow physical health models but mind and body experience differ fundamentally.
- Subjective well-being cannot be measured as precisely as physical health due to the soul and consciousness.