How much do we know about what makes people thrive and societies flourish? While a vast body of research has been dedicated to understanding problems and disorders, we know remarkably little about the positive aspects of life, the things that make life worth living. This landmark volume heralds the emergence of a new field of science that endeavours to understand how individuals and societies thrive and flourish, and how this new knowledge can be applied to foster happiness, healthand fulfillment, and institutions that encourage the development of these qualities. Taking a dynamic, cross-disciplinary approach, it sets out to explore the most promising routes to well-being, derived from the latest research in psychology, neuroscience, social science, economics and the effects of our natural environment. Designed for a general readership, this volume is of compelling interest to all those in the social, behavioural and biomedical sciences, the caring professions and policy makers. It provides a stimulating overview for any reader with a serious interest in the latest insights and strategies for enhancing our individual well-being, or the well-being of the communities in which we live and work.
Part 1 - Evolution and development; Natural selection and the elusiveness of happiness; Understanding well-being in the evolutionary context of brain development; The developmental origins of well-being; Successful ageing: from cell to self; Part 2 - Physiology and neuroscience; Well-being and affective style: neural substrates and biobehavioural correlates; Physically active lifestyle and well-being; The potential of nutrition to promote physical and behavioural well-being; Part 3 - Psychology of well-being; The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions; Relationship with reality and its role in the well-being of young adults; A balanced psychology and a full life; Living, and thinking about it: two perspectives on life; Positive mental health in individuals and populations; Part 4 - Cultural perspectives; Good work: its nature, its nurture; Intelligence and culture: how culture shapes what intelligence means and the implications for a science of well-being; The relevance of subjective well-being to social policies: optimal experience and tailored intervention; Naturally happy, naturally healthy: the role of the natural environment in well-being; Part 5 - Social and economic considerations; The social context of well-being; Does money buy happiness?; Meeting basic needs: peace and development; A well-being manifesto for a flourishing society;
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