What truly constitutes happiness? It’s a mystery that has intrigued intellectuals for ages, and yet it remains difficult to grasp. In our busy life, where we’re regularly bombarded with images of the "best life," nailing down what happiness is can be like searching for something intangible. But don’t worry, philosophy has been tackling this concept for centuries, and diving into its philosophical background can reveal deep insights into the real meaning of happiness.
The Ancient Greeks were some of the first to investigate the idea of happiness. The philosopher Aristotle, for example, suggested that true happiness, or "eudaimonia," is achieved through virtuous living and fulfilling one’s potential. He suggested that happiness isn’t just a fleeting emotion but a condition that results from living a harmonious and meaningful life. In contrast, Epicurus championed a more straightforward view, believing that happiness is derived from the quest for pleasure and the avoidance of pain—though, unlike what many believe, he valued the joys of the mind and spirit over material enjoyment.
Moving into the contemporary age, and the philosophical inquiry into happiness has evolved. Modern philosophers like Sartre argued that happiness is personal and linked to personal freedom, while others, like utilitarians, argue that happiness can be evaluated by the greatest good for the greatest number. The value of philosophical thought is that it doesn’t give a standard answer. Instead, it gives multiple perspectives, encouraging business philosophy us to consider what happiness looks like to each of us. In a culture centered around winning and economic success, philosophy shows us that happiness is a deeply personal journey, not a destination.