Anthropology and the Study of Humanity Season 1 Episode 24

Ep 24. The Anthropology of Happiness

  • TV-PG
  • May 26, 2017
  • 35 min

In this episode of Anthropology and the Study of Humanity, titled "The Anthropology of Happiness," viewers are taken on a journey to explore the human quest for happiness through the lens of anthropology. The episode opens with an introduction to the concept of happiness as a universal human goal, and the difficulty of defining happiness across different cultures and contexts.

Anthropologists and psychologists from around the world are interviewed to share their perspectives on the study of happiness. They discuss the role of culture, social relationships, genetics, and individual preferences in shaping one's experience of happiness. Viewers are introduced to the idea of "cultural models of happiness," which are the shared beliefs, values, and practices that define what it means to be happy in a particular society.

The episode then takes a deeper dive into the anthropology of happiness, exploring case studies from different cultures and societies. Viewers are introduced to the concept of "affective forecasting," which is the ability to predict one's emotional reactions to future events. The episode features interviews with individuals who have experienced significant life changes, such as winning the lottery or becoming paralyzed, to examine how these events impact one's happiness in the long-term.

The episode also explores the role of social relationships in shaping happiness. Viewers are introduced to the concept of "collective happiness," which is the idea that happiness is not just an individual emotion, but is also a collective state that is influenced by the happiness of those around us. The episode features interviews with individuals from different cultures and backgrounds to examine how social relationships impact happiness, and how those relationships are shaped by cultural norms and expectations.

Another topic discussed in the episode is the role of technology in shaping happiness. Viewers are introduced to the concept of "digital happiness," which is the idea that technology can be used to enhance happiness through the use of social media, fitness apps, and other digital tools. The episode features interviews with experts in the field of technology and psychology to explore the benefits and drawbacks of digital happiness, and how it impacts our relationships and sense of self.

The episode concludes with a reflection on the anthropology of happiness as a field of study, and its relevance to our lives and society as a whole. Viewers are left with a greater understanding of the complexity of happiness, and the many factors that influence our ability to experience it. The episode invites viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and values around happiness, and to consider how those beliefs are shaped by their cultural and social context.

Overall, "The Anthropology of Happiness" is an engaging and thought-provoking episode that provides viewers with a fascinating and comprehensive exploration of the human quest for happiness. It invites viewers to step outside of their own cultural and social context, and to consider the many factors that impact our ability to experience happiness.

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Description
Watch Anthropology and the Study of Humanity - The Anthropology of Happiness (s1 e24) Online - Watch online anytime: Buy, Rent
Anthropology and the Study of Humanity, Season 1 Episode 24, is available to watch and stream on The Great Courses Signature Collection. You can also buy, rent Anthropology and the Study of Humanity on demand at Hoopla online.
  • First Aired
    May 26, 2017
  • Content Rating
    TV-PG
  • Runtime
    35 min
  • Language
    English