Philosophy and Human Flourishing

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The questions of what constitutes flourishing lives and how to achieve them have long been central to philosophy. Recent advancements in positive psychology, psychiatry, evolutionary biology, cognitive science, behavioral economics, and various philosophical fields—including feminist theory and critical race studies—now allow for a fresh exploration of these inquiries. Thirteen contributors present diverse perspectives on understanding and promoting human flourishing. Part One delves into the meaning of flourishing, examining purposeful lives, homeostasis across biological, psychological, and social levels, human agency, narrative's role, self-fulfillment, subjective values, and the necessity of recognizing diverse human experiences. Part Two addresses the conditions essential for flourishing, highlighting the importance of adaptable habits, social justice over individualism, epistemic responsibility, civility, and values literacy. It emphasizes the need for educational reform, particularly in the humanities, a cultural shift towards eudaimonic values instead of mere consumerism, and the transformative power of the creative arts in enhancing our abilities, fostering genuine self-governance, and offering solace in times of loss.