This volume brings together researchers to analyse and describe the concept of happiness in its various appearances in the history of thought. They trace its journey from the very first writings in Greek literature and historiography, through early Greek philosophy, Classical, Hellenistic and Neoplatonic philosophers, 10th century Christian manuscript writings, early and late medieval mysticism to the medieval Hindu philosophy of liberation, early modern philosophy and contemporary positive psychology. As the volume shows, happiness appears in many forms, all connected with the human sense of...

This book follows in the footsteps of great thinkers on human happiness, from the Hebrew Bible, through Greek philosophy, medieval mysticism, early modern philosophy, 19th century transcendentalism, the 20th century Harlem Renaissance and early Hebrew poetry, to contemporary writings. As active participators in the ongoing process of creation, we can amend the world and make it a stable, safe place for all. This can be done through curiosity and learning, connecting with the divine and nature, activism for the oneness of all, or by the simple awareness of our significant standing as...