A reflection on the conceptions of happiness in institutional policies

Sandoval M.A.R.; Nunjar H.O.T.; Guzmán M.L.B.; Landa F.I.E. · Encuentros (Maracaibo) (2024) · DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.13363084

Resumen

An important movement inspired by the hedonistic vision of happiness has led to converting the concept into a measurable material for the construction of national and institutional happiness policies, seeking to increase happiness based on material and psychological variables. This article reviews the bases of this approach, contrasting it with the eudaimonic view of happiness, which focuses more on spiritual fulfillment. Methodologically, institutional experiences in the literature are observed and compared, including the World Happiness Index. We also applied and analyzed a survey with a Lickert scale, in order to identify to what extent the hedonistic narrative may or may not allow the development of the eudaimonic vision. It is concluded that, due to its nature, it is not possible so far to create a ponderable model that reconciles the eudaimonic vision of happiness in institutional policy. This debate implies an epistemological review of the scientific and philosophical relevance of positivism, positive psychology and the unresolved tension between reason and emotion.

Instituciones: Universidad César Vallejo