“Happiness is only real when shared”?
THE QUESTION: How do other humans give our lives meaning?
Starter 2.23: In the scene with Ron Franz, Chris says to him: “You are wrong when you think the principal joy in life comes from human relationships.” But then in Alaska, Chris notes in the margins of a book that “Happiness is only real when shared.” What do you think? Is our happiness inside of ourselves or does it depend on other people? How do other humans shape our life’s purpose?
- During the talk, write down key ideas/phrases/words/concepts/questions
SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION (take notes and submit to Jessica)
- What was the thesis of this talk? Does it surprise you? What, ultimately did the research reveal about what makes a good life? Do you think the conclusions of this research apply to everyone?
- Do you think the results would be different if women were included in the study from the start? Do you think both genders have the same trends in happiness?
- What are the cultural implications of this study? Do you think our culture sets us up for happy and healthy lives? How might the prevalence of social media impact these findings?
- Share your takeaways and relate this Chris McCandless' story and your answer to the starter. Do we need other people to be happy or can we find happiness in our solitude? Do you think Chris would agree with or reject the findings of this researcher?
JOURNAL 2.23: REFLECTION ON YOUR RELATIONSHIPS AS THEY CORRELATE TO YOUR HAPPINESS AND MEANING
- Reflect on the role that your relationships with other people play in defining your happiness and meaning. What are the most important relationship in your life and in what ways do these relationship influence you and your well-being? Your happiness and meaning? How do these relationships define who you are and your life's purpose?
REVIEW: “Your Life on Earth” Personal Philosophy Project (note modified due dates)
Student Examples:
WORK TIME: Starting freewriting your personal philosophy statement (or another form of prewriting: outline? Cluster? Bullet list?)
PLEASE TURN IN INTO THE WILD