What is Happiness?

Happiness may seem like a simple idea — feeling good and enjoying life — but psychology suggests it is far more complex. Over the past several decades, researchers have developed multiple frameworks to explain what happiness is and how it can be cultivated. Psychologist Martin Seligman, a founder of positive psychology, proposed the PERMA model to describe the key components of flourishing. Meanwhile, Self-Determination Theory, developed by Deci and Ryan, argues that lasting well-being depends on fulfilling three basic psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Taken together, these theories suggest that happiness is not merely a mood, but a multifaceted state shaped by purpose, relationships, and personal growth.

• Of the five elements in Seligman’s PERMA model, which seems most essential to you — and which do you think modern life tends to neglect?
• How important are autonomy, competence, and relatedness to your own well-being? Which of these is hardest to secure in today’s culture?
• Is happiness primarily a personal responsibility, or does it depend on social, economic, and political conditions?
• Are happiness interventions (like gratitude journaling or reframing thoughts) genuine paths to flourishing, or do they risk becoming superficial self-optimization?
• Does suffering undermine happiness, or can it actually contribute to a richer form of it?

What is Happiness? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDF2DidUAyY
Seligman’s PERMA Model Explained: A Theory of Wellbeing https://positivepsychology.com/perma-model/
The Role of Self-Determination in Wellbeing https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/click-here-for-happiness/202209/the-role-of-self-determination-in-well-being
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In addition to the main topic (above), we also provide breakout rooms at 8pm as follows:
“Philosophy” – philosophy and its applications
“Town Square” – politics and current events
“Conference Room” – open for anything
“The Lounge” – light social chat