Uncovering The Philosophy

Explore the Philosophies of Happiness

Happiness is understood differently across traditions. This page gives a brief overview of each philosophical school featured on our site. Click through to learn more about each.

Stoicism

• Key Idea: Control what you can, accept what you can’t.
• Core Texts: Epictetus, Handbook; Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
• Takeaway: True happiness comes from mastering your internal state, not external circumstances.

Daoism

• Key Idea: Flow naturally with life. Don’t resist change.
• Core Texts: Tao Te Ching; Zhuangzi
• Takeaway: When we align with the natural rhythm of the world, we discover peace and joy.

Epicureanism

• Key Idea: Pleasure is the absence of pain.
• Core Texts: Epicurus, Letter to Menoeceus
• Takeaway: Simplifying life and focusing on friendship and thoughtfulness leads to long-lasting happiness.

Existentialism

• Key Idea: Meaning is not given. It is made.
• Core Texts: Sartre, Existentialism is a Humanism
• Takeaway: We are radically free and responsible. That freedom is a burden and a gift.

Confucianism / Mencius

• Key Idea: We are innately good and become fully human through relationships.
• Core Texts: Mencius Book 6A; The Analects
• Takeaway: Cultivating virtue in society, family, and self fosters flourishing.

Utilitarianism

• Key Idea: Maximize overall happiness.
• Core Texts: Bentham, Mill, Darwin
• Takeaway: Ethical actions produce the greatest good for the most significant number.

Aristotelian Ethics

• Key Idea: Happiness is flourishing (eudaimonia) through virtue and reason.
• Core Texts: Nicomachean Ethics
• Takeaway: The good life is one of moral character, balance, and purpose.

Buddhism

• Key Idea: Attachment causes suffering. Letting go leads to peace.
• Core Texts: Dhammapada; Buddhist Discourses
• Takeaway: Mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom dissolve the sources of unhappiness.