INQ-110 | Scientific Pursuit of Happiness

Full Title: The Scientific Pursuit of Happiness

Topic Description:

From the perspective of psychological science this course examines the nature of happiness and explores strategies that have been proposed for the pursuit of happiness. Critical inquiry will be made into several questions, including the following: What is happiness? How happy are people in general? Who is happy, and why? Is it possible to become happier? What happiness strategies or skills are supported by scientific research and which are not? Students will examine and evaluate the contemporary scientific research on happiness and its correlates, and will evaluate strategies purported to increase happiness. Students will also be asked to apply their knowledge of skills derived from happiness research in some dimensions of their everyday lives, and to appraise the outcomes of applying these specific happiness strategies.

Counts as Global? No

Topic Approved: February 2009