Reordering the concept of well-being with Epicurus and the hierarchy of desires

Press/Media: Press / Media

Description

With the publication of the 6th IPCC assessment report, it is clear that the consumerist lifestyle has caused serious damage to Earth’s life-supporting systems. The report recognises degrowth and post-growth as alternative trajectories to the hegemonic developmentalism, that is, the idea of Western capitalist progress as synonym for development. Remarkably, the report also highlights that well-being and good life are not solely dependent on economic growth and material well-being. Yet, while the contemporary western definition of ‘good life’ has long been based on consumption and ever-increasing material wealth, we need not look far from our own historical heritage to find principles and philosophies for a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.

Period12 Oct 2022

Media contributions

1

Media contributions

Keywords

  • well-being
  • degrowth
  • sustainability