The Thomistic Institute Can We Be Happy Without God? I Prof. Matthew Shea
Aug 1, 2025
Matthew Shea, an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Franciscan University of Steubenville, dives deep into the philosophical question of happiness in relation to God. He discusses insights from Plato and St. Augustine, emphasizing that true fulfillment lies in a relationship with the divine. Shea contrasts theistic views against atheistic perspectives, arguing that perfect happiness is unattainable without God. He also explores humanity's longing for connection and virtue, suggesting that while imperfect happiness is possible, ultimate contentment can only be found through faith.
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Universal Desire for Happiness
- Everyone desires happiness as a universal human fact acknowledged by thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, and Aquinas.
- Modern society debates if happiness can be found without God, prompting philosophical analysis of this question.
Defining Happiness Philosophically
- Happiness is best understood as well-being or human flourishing, not just cheerful feelings.
- Various theories (hedonism, desire satisfaction, objective list, perfectionism, eudaimonism) explain happiness differently, but all focus on what makes life good for an individual.
Star Wars as Happiness Example
- Matthew Shea uses his enjoyment and disappointment of Star Wars films to illustrate different theories of happiness.
- Watching original Star Wars satisfies pleasure and desire, while sequels cause pain and dissatisfaction, exemplifying subjective and objective goods.
