In a previous article critiquing Tolstoy’s ‘A Calendar of Wisdom’, I examined the author’s perspective on ‘knowledge’ and its role in human life. I highlighted intriguing aspects of Tolstoy’s views on knowledge from a 19th-century perspective.
Interestingly, the most feedback I received concerned Tolstoy’s assertion that “knowledge is a tool for a good life.” While concepts like ‘goodness‘ and ‘happiness‘ are subjective, this feedback encouraged me to explore the topic further, leading to the reflections in this article.
Philosophers throughout history have grappled with the question of happiness. Plato and his student Aristotle distinguished between happiness and hedonic pleasure, with Aristotle asserting that a good life stems from balance.
Similarly, Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor and philosopher, emphasized that happiness is self-generated, famously stating: “Very little is needed to make a happy life; it is all within yourself.”
Aurelius further argued that those who seek popularity depend on others for happiness, those chasing pleasure are subject to external whims, while the wise cultivate happiness through their own actions.
However, can self-sufficiency truly lead to happiness in today’s world?
Modern research suggests otherwise. The Harvard Study of Adult Development, an 85-year-long investigation into well-being, highlights two primary contributors to happiness: maintaining good health and building positive relationships. The study reveals that professional success alone does not guarantee happiness. Instead, loneliness—an increasingly prevalent issue in modern society—undermines well-being. Conversely, the happiest individuals actively nurture their relationships and develop social skills to foster meaningful connections. These findings echo Aristotle’s belief in a balanced, interconnected life.
In this context, it is also worth addressing ‘digital loneliness,’ a pressing issue of our time. Often referred to as the epidemic of the digital age, it warrants further exploration. To keep this article concise, I will discuss the impact of ‘digital isolation’ and ‘solitude deprivation’ in future articles.