Unlocking happiness through philosophy, innovation

Innovation refers to the process of creating and implementing new ideas, products, processes, or technologies that bring about significant improvements or changes. It involves thinking creatively, exploring novel solutions, adapting to evolving circumstances, visiting new countries, meeting new people, education, reading, acquiring knowledge, learning new language, innovative cooking, and changing your life style and every day habits. 

Happiness is a positive emotional state characterised by feelings of contentment, joy, satisfaction and well-being. It goes beyond temporary pleasure and is often associated with a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and satisfaction. Happiness can be influenced by various factors, including personal experiences and genetics, social relationships, environmental contact with nature, cultural values and individual perceptions of one’s own life. 

G. E. Moore, and English philosopher, defined happiness as a complex and multi-faceted concept that includes more than just pleasure; it might also involve fulfillment, contentment, and overall well-being. While pleasure can be a part of happiness, it cannot fully capture the entire meaning of happiness.

As for the title of this article, both innovation and happiness play crucial roles in enhancing the human experience well being and improving the interconnectedness of societies. Innovation can lead to advancements that improve living conditions, create opportunities and address challenges. Happiness, on the other hand, reflects the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals and communities, contributing to a more fulfilling and meaningful life which can help in uncovering parts of the purpose of life.

Philosophy has a rich history of exploring the concept of happiness and its significance in human life. Various philosophical traditions and the works of thinkers have offered diverse perspectives on what constitutes happiness, how it can be achieved and its relationship to a meaningful life? Here are some key philosophical viewpoints on happiness:

Eastern philosophies like Buddhism offer perspectives on happiness. Buddhism teaches that suffering arises from attachment and craving, and true happiness is achieved through the cessation of these attachments. For instance, the story of Prince Siddhartha (who became the Buddha) exemplifies this teaching. Born into luxury, Siddhartha was shielded from suffering. Upon encountering old age, sickness, and death, he realised that material wealth and pleasures were fleeting and unsatisfying. He renounced his royal life, embarked on a spiritual journey, and attained enlightenment, understanding that true happiness comes from letting go of attachments and desires.

Aristotle, a Greek philosopher, of the fourth century BC, who was the mentor of Alexander the Great, believed that true happiness is achieved through living a virtuous life in which individuals develop their potential and engage in activities that align with their nature; Virtues such as courage, wisdom, and kindness. One wonders how kind was Alexander when he conquered the world.

Hedonism is a philosophical stance that posits pleasure and happiness as the highest goods. While there are different variations of hedonism, they generally prioritize the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. Epicureanism, a form of hedonism, started with the Greek philosopher Epicurus around 307 BC, it focuses on achieving tranquility and intellectual pleasures. Modern hedonists like Peter Singer and Richard Hare. It emphasises simple living, friendship, and the avoidance of unnecessary desires.

Stoicism, an ancient philosophy founded in Athens by Zeno in the early 3rd century BC, has seen resurgence in contemporary thought and practice. Stoicism teaches that true happiness is achieved by aligning one’s inner values and attitudes with the natural order of the universe. Stoics emphasise the importance of cultivating virtues such as wisdom, courage and self-control, which lead to inner peace and resilience in the face of external circumstances.

Modern Stoicism adapts and applies ancient Stoic principles to today’s world, emphasising virtues like wisdom, courage, justice and temperance. For example Ryan Holiday — author of several best-selling books on stoicism, including “The Obstacle Is the Way”, “Ego Is the Enemy”, and “The Daily Stoic”. Holiday’s works have brought stoic ideas to a broad audience, emphasising their practical application in personal and professional life.

Utilitarianism, a moral theory, asserts that actions are right if they promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people. Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill were key proponents of this theory, emphasising the importance of maximizing pleasure and minimising pain. Happiness is understood in terms of pleasure and the absence of suffering.

Existentialist philosophers, like Jean-Paul Sartre, explored the concept of happiness within the context of individual freedom. Sartre considered that creating one’s own meaning and purpose in a seemingly absurd world could lead to authentic happiness, even in the face of challenges and hardships.

Viktor Frankl’s approach, known as logotherapy, focuses on finding meaning in life as a path to happiness. He believed that individuals can find purpose even in the midst of suffering and that a sense of meaning contributes to psychological well-being.