What does it mean to be happy? What is a life well lived? While deceptively simple on the surface, these are big questions that are hard to answer. And when grappling with the bigger questions of life, we often find solace in philosophy.
In the quest for a fulfilling life, scholars and philosophers have long debated the nature of well-being and the paths that lead to it. Two prominent perspectives that have emerged are the eudaimonic and hedonistic versions of well-being. While both seek to capture the essence of a flourishing life, they differ in their underlying principles and emphasis.
Seeking pleasure
Derived from the ancient Greek concept of hedone, meaning ‘pleasure,’ this perspective focuses on maximising immediate happiness. According to hedonistic well-being, the key to a satisfying life lies in the pursuit of pleasure, enjoyment, and the absence of discomfort or suffering.
Mumbai-based psychologist and researcher Aasawari Gharat says, “The hedonistic approach emphasises the pursuit of pleasure and avoidance of pain.” She adds that while this approach brings immediate gratification and pleasure, this may be fleeting and only temporary.
From a hedonistic standpoint, well-being is achieved through the pursuit of pleasurable experiences, such as indulging in sensory delights, engaging in leisure activities, and maximising personal enjoyment.
According to a 2021 research study led by researcher Mohsen Joshanloo of Keimyung University, South Korea, hedonistic well-being is linked to the personality trait of sensation seeking, which is typically associated with high levels of impulsive and risk-taking behaviours.
Beyond pleasure, seeking meaning
The eudaimonic version of well-being derives its name from the ancient Greek concept of eudaimonia, which roughly translates to ‘flourishing’ or ‘living in accordance with one’s true nature.’
Jaipur-based psychologist Mehal Sharma says that eudaimonic well-being involves a sense of purpose, personal growth, and the pursuit of excellence. “It comes from the inherent human desire for self-actualisation and allows individuals to experience a profound and lasting sense of fulfilment.”
This perspective emphasises the pursuit of a meaningful and purposeful life. According to eudaimonic well-being, true happiness and fulfilment are not found in the fleeting moments of pleasure or the absence of pain, but rather in engaging with activities that align with our values, strengths, and virtues.
Sharma says that most people have an inherent desire to seek out more meaningful experiences. “Till a certain point in one’s life, just hedonistic pleasure may be enough. But eventually, as I have seen in most clients, the deep sense of fulfilment only comes by seeking a higher meaning,” she says.
From a eudaimonic perspective, leading a meaningful life involves striving for personal growth, self-actualisation, and the realisation of one’s full potential. This often entails pursuing activities that are challenging, purposeful, and contribute to the greater good.
While the hedonistic view seeks immediate gratification and the maximisation of positive emotions, the eudaimonic perspective emphasises the pursuit of long-term meaning and purpose. It recognises the importance of autonomy, personal growth, and the pursuit of a higher purpose in fostering a deeply fulfilling and sustainable sense of well-being.
A symphony of pleasure and meaning
It is important to note that these two perspectives are not mutually exclusive, and individuals may find elements of both eudaimonic and hedonistic well-being in their lives.
Gharat emphasises, “A meaningful life combines hedonistic moments of pleasure with the pursuit of something larger than oneself. By integrating the pursuit of pleasure with the pursuit of purpose and meaning, individuals can experience the best of both worlds.”
The eudaimonic and hedonistic versions of well-being offer distinct yet complementary paths to a fulfilling life. While eudaimonic well-being focuses on personal growth, meaning, and the realisation of one’s potential, hedonistic well-being emphasises pleasure, enjoyment, and the avoidance of pain.
Sharma adds that these forms of well-being should not be pitted against each other. Both add value to one’s life in their own way. It is up to each individual to figure out what they are looking for, and how to cultivate it in their lives.
Understanding these perspectives allows individuals to reflect on their values, goals, and preferences and make informed choices that align with their unique vision of a flourishing life. Ultimately, the pursuit of well-being is a deeply personal journey, and finding the right balance between eudaimonia and hedonia is a quest that everyone must embark upon in his or her own way.
