ABSTRACT
How to live well and the search for meaning have long been of intense concern to humans, perhaps because Homo sapiens is the only species aware of its own mortality. In the last few decades, empirical psychology made a major contribution to this quest. This book surveys groundbreaking work by leading international researchers, demonstrating that social psychology is the core discipline for understanding well-being and the search for meaning. Basic conceptual and theoretical principles are discussed, drawing on philosophy, evolutionary theory and psychology, followed by a review of the role of purposeful, motivated activity and self-control in achieving life satisfaction. The role of emotional and cognitive processes and the influence of social, interpersonal and cultural factors in promoting a happy and meaningful life are discussed. The book will be of interest to students, practitioners and researchers in the behavioral and social sciences, as well as to laypersons for whom improving the quality of human life and understanding the principles of well-being are of interest.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
part I|64 pages
Conceptual Issues
part II|78 pages
The Role of Purposeful Activities in Living Well
chapter 7|15 pages
Whither Happiness?
part III|76 pages
Affective and Cognitive Aspects of Living Well
chapter 12|23 pages
Negative Affect and the Good Life
part IV|99 pages
Social and Cultural Factors in Living Well