The complex territory of well-being: contestable evidence, contentious theories and speculative conclusions

Carlisle, S. and Hanlon, P. (2007) The complex territory of well-being: contestable evidence, contentious theories and speculative conclusions. Journal of Public Mental Health, 6(4),

Abstract

This paper brings together evidence and theories from a number of disciplines and thinkers that highlight multiple, sometimes incommensurable understandings about well-beings. Three broad strands are identified. The first strand is categorised as the 'hard' science of well-being and its stagnation or decline in modern western society. The second strand, social and political theory suggests that conceptualisations of well-being are shaped by aspects of western culture, often in line with the demands of a capitalist economic society. The third theme pursues the critique of consumer culture's influence on well-being but in the context of broader human problems. This approach draws on ecology, ethics, philosophy and much else to suggest we urgently need to reconsider what it means to be human, if we are to survive and thrive.

• Item Type: Articles
• Keywords: Science of well-being, culture, consumer capitalism, positive psychology, individualism.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Hanlon, Professor Phil and Carlisle, Dr Sandra
• Authors: Carlisle, S., and Hanlon, P.
• Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > B Philosophy (General); B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences
• Journal Name: Journal of Public Mental Health
• Publisher: Pavilion
• ISSN: 1746-5729
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2007 Pavilion
• First Published: First published in Journal of Public Mental Health 6(4)
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher.