Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This research project critically appraises the concept of happiness in the works of St. Augustine, one of the most influential figures in the history of Western philosophy and theology. Augustine's understanding of happiness is deeply rooted in his Christian faith and philosophical reflections. Through an analysis of key texts such as his Confessions and City of God, this study explores the complexities and nuances of Augustine's thoughts on happiness. Central to Augustine's conception of happiness is the idea that true and lasting happiness can only be found in God. He argues that human beings are innately restless until they find their ultimate fulfillment in union with the divine. Augustine's understanding of happiness is closely tied to his views on human nature, sin, and redemption. He posits that the pursuit of earthly pleasures and material possessions cannot bring true happiness, as they are fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying. Furthermore, Augustine delves into the relationship between happiness and virtue, highlighting the importance of moral integrity and spiritual growth in the quest for genuine happiness. He emphasizes the role of self-examination, repentance, and divine grace in achieving a state of happiness that transcends worldly circumstances. Augustine's concept of happiness is dynamic and transformative, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from a deep-seated alignment with God's will and a commitment to living a virtuous life. Moreover, this research project examines the influence of Augustine's ideas on happiness on later philosophical and theological thought. His emphasis on the primacy of spiritual well-being and the pursuit of a higher good resonates with various intellectual traditions, including existentialism, phenomenology, and Christian mysticism. By situating Augustine's concept of happiness within the broader context of Western philosophy, this study sheds light on its enduring relevance and impact. In conclusion, the concept of happiness in St. Augustine's works offers a profound and multifaceted exploration of the human quest for fulfillment and meaning. His insights into the nature of happiness, virtue, and divine grace continue to inspire scholars and seekers alike to reflect on the deeper dimensions of the human experience. This research project provides a critical appraisal of Augustine's philosophical and theological contributions to the understanding of happiness, highlighting their enduring significance for contemporary thought and practice.

Thesis Overview

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

 

 

1.1       INTRODUCTION

 

Aristotle in the commencement of his “Metaphysics” wrote: “pantes anthropoi tou eidenai oregontai phuse”[1] (all men by nature desire to know). This existential passion or desire is quite innate and intrinsic in man. Due to that irresistible urge in man to know, he involves himself in a curious and inquisitive search into the reasons for his existence. Perhaps Socrates realized this fact and so maintained, “an unexamined life is not worth living”[2].

In other words, the life of man on earth must have a purpose. And, in order to grasp this end of human life on earth, an intensive study is necessarily indispensable.

To provide an answer or answers to these timely interrogatives, scholars, thinkers, erudite philosophers from many schools of thought have given diverse views and opinions. St Augustine of Hippo argues and advocates that “Happiness” is the purpose of human life and actions. Put differently, he submits that happiness is the essence of human existence. Following this Augustinian trend of thesis would be that man; by virtue of his personhood has a natural inclination to happiness.

Nevertheless, the postulation of the end of human life as a search for happiness has altogether become problematic. The issue to grapple with is how to effect a true understanding of the notion of happiness. What do we mean when we say that someone is happy? In this wise, I intend to contribute to the effort being made towards understanding the one human objective – “to achieve happiness.” This will be done by a critical appraisal of the notion of happiness in St. Augustine.

1.2 THE STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

There are myriads of instabilities – political, economic, religious et cetera. The issues of bribery and corruption and the attendant poverty of purse and mind have remained heart-rending. In the most parts of the world, some countries are characterised as rich but poor nation, no thanks to her administrators, from past to the present.

Although many interpretations have been given to account for the numerous failures evident in the seemingly non-abating societal problems, I wish to focus on the psycho-existential quest of man as the root of the problem. What this means is that he understands the problem as emanating from the deep human desire to be satisfied and to feel good. Everybody desires the good And even when at the end what was desired turned out to be bad, it was initially desired as an apparent good.

Accordingly, the failed administrators are all seeking the ways to be happy. The youths who engage in violent, immoral and criminal activities are invariably seeking for happiness. If all these are so, it then calls for a fresh study of the notion of happiness. This is our contention! This is our aim!! However we do so through the perspective pf St. Augustine of Hippo.

 

1.3 PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

What is happiness? What does it mean to be happy? And in what does happiness consist? These and other like questions are what I set out to investigate in this work. This investigation is proper especially at this moment when there is an obvious misinformation about the concept of happiness. People no longer understand what it means to be happy and the difference between happiness and pleasure. The fact we shall gather through this discursive investigation and exegesis, hopefully, will help to redirect our minds towards the proper appreciation of happiness.

 

1.4 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

 

The centrality of the concept of happiness to man has made it a topic of everybody’s interest. Scholars of various inclinations have commented and written profusely about happiness. Various religions preach it as the goal of human striving encapsulated in the notion of the beatific vision. More so, the goal of scientific and technological advancements has also been noted to be the longing for happiness and good life

But not withstanding the available literary corpus on happiness, I will limit myself to the Augustinean view on happiness, especially as explicated in his works – The City of God and the Confessions. In any case, the views of other thinkers, philosophers and theologians will be made use of when the need arises.

1.5 METHODOLOGY

Every literary work goes with its unique style and methodology. In this work, I will employ the methods of exposition, analysis and evaluation. The views of Augustine on happiness are brought to the fore through a systematic narrative exposition to highlight the basic tenets. Now abreast with his doctrine, I shall analytically evaluate the whole idea with the strength of some existential facts. The whole methodological approach will be critical.

1.6 DIVISION OF WORK

The work is divided into five chapters. Chapter one is the general introduction for Proper understanding of the essay: the statement of the problem, the purpose and the method used, the scope, division of the work. Chapter two bears literature review on happiness. Chapter three provides us with the clarification of various concepts. The view of Augustine of Hippo is portrayed in chapter four. A critical appraisal and conclusion brings the work to an end in chapter five.