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The first part of the book reviews empirical work relating to happiness (including attitudinal studies), claims made in an educational context and postwar philosophical treatment of the concept. There is a useful account of Aristotle’s pioneering work and a stimulating summary of some of the main themes to be found in the literature concerning happiness. In the second part the author elucidates the concept of happiness, and consider the significance, reliability and plausibility of the various empirical claims in the light of a clear understanding of what happiness is. After discussing whether happiness ought to be valued in general terms the study concludes by outlining the ways in which it can be related to education and schooling and by suggesting action which could be taken in schools in order to promote happiness.
Introduction. Part 1: Background Material: Empirical, Literary and Philosophical 1 Empirical Claims. 2. Aristotle on Happiness. 3. Some Literary Aphorisms. 4. The Philosophical Tradition. Part 2: Some Positive Conclusions. 5. The Concept Analysed. 6. The Empirical Claims Examined. 7. The Value of Happiness. 8. Happiness, Schooling and Education. Notes and References. Select Bibliography. Index