What is happiness? A philosopher looks for answers

A definition of happiness must include unhappiness and chance if it’s to have real meaning.

By: Anné H. Verhoef, North-West University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: March 4, 2026

Words: 1,327

Last Updated: 6 days, 21 hours ago

Body Text Preview

By Anné H. Verhoef, North-West University

When we seek happiness, what exactly are we searching for? And when we wish happiness on someone else, what is it that we truly desire for them?

Can happiness even be defined or is it an illusion, an impossible desire to fulfil? So then why are there so many happiness self-help books? What do they promise and can they be attained? Is it possible to measure happiness? If so, …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

Email Us