The philosophical inquiry, centering on the issue of how a man can live happily, remains ever present and evinces numerous explanations addressing the means through which an individual may flourish best. These include hedonism, which sees pleasure as the ultimate goal. Then, there is desire theory, which emphasizes the importance of fulfilling an educated or rational desire; lastly, objective list theory, which highlights several objects that possess intrinsic value. In his view, the objective list theory is an all-encompassing measure and offers an appropriate yardstick for evaluating human well-being. Also, it criticizes hedonic and desire theories, pointing at their limitation. Finally, it argues that objectivist list theory defines knowledge as the highest good and illustrates it through the theoretical approach of philosophical theories and actual illustrations.
Objective List Theory: A Holistic Approach to Well-Being
According to objective list theory, certain objectively good things exist that provide great value to humans and are listed as objects with intrinsic and not only instrumental importance. The theory denies judgments based on one’s subjective feelings about their welfare and claims for a more objective approach. Dimensions such as knowledge, meaningful relationships, talent growth, and character development make up an objective list. This goes beyond personal and cultural choices in seeking an intercultural and sustainable meaning of being well-off.
The objective theory postulates that some goods are universally useful, no matter how the cultural, temporal, and personal influences vary in different contexts (“Subjectivity and Objectivity (Philosophy)”). One example is that the search for knowledge has generally been honored by all societies at all times, signifying some fundamental characteristics of a good life intrinsic to humankind. This universality surpasses momentary preferences, trendy options, and a culturally contingent conception of well-being determined by individual whims.
The concept of intrinsic value distinguishes the objective list theory from hedonism and desire theory, which largely emphasize the instrumental value of things for achieving pleasure or satisfying desires. The inherent value of knowledge as an objective good extends well beyond any possible pleasurable or desirable outcomes of knowledge. Knowledge’s inherent value serves as a strong basis for describing what it means to be happy. This theory differs fundamentally from others that define ‘happiness’ in terms of temporary pleasure or changing whims.
Good life objective list theory dictates that everyone will recognize the significance of knowledge, talent building, meaningful relationships, and virtuousness toward a good life. This all-encompassing standpoint involves a lasting approach that expands beyond individualism and culturally relativistic approaches as important facets of human prosperity.
Critique of Hedonism: Pleasure’s Fleeting Nature
The hedonistic perspective posits that individuals should pursue pleasure to improve their well-being. However, hedonism faces serious difficulties in providing a complete analysis of human welfare.
The Ephemeral Nature of Pleasure
This is among the main criticisms of hedonism since pleasure is a brief and momentary condition. These efforts based on hedonic principles normally present momentary satisfaction, leading to an endless cycle whereby people continuously search for new pleasures. These intrinsic weaknesses propel deep inquiries on whether happiness can be achieved based solely upon transient contentment.
In addition, the fleeting aspect of joy makes it difficult to envisage long-lasting felicity under the hedonist system. While pursuing momentary pleasures continuously might relieve pain temporarily, it casts doubt on whether short-term pleasure can yield a lasting and true sense of overall well-being. Such criticism gives us food for thought that if the joy is fleeting and there is little enduring satisfaction, what does it profit?
Neglect of Non-Hedonistic Goods
Hedonism typically fails to recognize the inherent worth of unconnected pleasurable stuff. Contrary to this slim perspective, objective list theory acknowledges that some assets, like information, have unique value regardless of how they are used for enjoyment moments. This broader view enables a more holistic appraisal of human welfare that supersedes the restrictions of hedonism.
Hedonism is not just considered with regard to temporary pleasure but is also criticized in another dimension. Hedonism does not cover all aspects of a flourishing life by ignoring non-hedonistic goods (Weijers). On the other hand, objective list theory considers a general appraisal that acknowledges commodities such as knowledge with regard to its short-term gratification. In response, this critique calls for a rethink of the extent and the breadth that a valid theory of well-being may require.
Thus, in summary, a critique of hedonism—specifically, its impermanent pleasures and lack of reference to other items beyond enjoyment—calls into question hedonism’s ability to serve as the only determinant of human well-being. These critiques highlight the need for a more encompassing approach, such as objective list theory, which addresses all elements considered part of human flourishing. Top of Form
III. Critique of Desire Theory: The Pitfalls of Fulfilled Desires
The desire theory claims that well-being lies in satisfying informed/rational desires where desires have a crucial influence on the quality of human life. Although desires certainly form one’s experience, basing one’s happiness purely on satisfying them neglects many important issues.
Uninformed or Irrational Desires
The greatest objection of desire theory is that it presumes any wish must have been reasonable and informed. Through this view, a good life is that which fulfills desires. Nevertheless, in most such cases, people always have some naïve and sometimes even dangerous wishes. Unquestionably, fulfilling such desires uncritically can turn the person’s actions against their welfare.
Such critique invites us to realize complex and multi-leveled facets of people’s needs. There is no guarantee that all desires make sense or are made following informed decision-making. Fulfilling every desire mindlessly can mislead people in their pursuit of wellness. The recognition that desires are diverse and intricate helps create an image of goodness, which looks at how good is determined (quality) and whether desires were fulfilled.
External Influences on Desires
Desires do not stand alone; social expectations, cultural views, and peer influence form them. However, desire theory needs to provide an acceptable explanation of how external factors influence desire formation and satisfaction. On the other hand, unlike objective listing theory, which considers a plurality of material and non-material goods beyond the desire, subjective value theory regards only what people consider good.
Desire theory often fails to consider the external influences on desires, posing fundamental problems for explaining human well-being (Atus Mariqueo-Russell). Desire theory simply explains what results in flourishing human life by ignoring the complex interaction among internal needs and external agents. This contends a more comprehensive analysis that would consider the reciprocal effect of personal motivations and external societal conditions.
In brief, despite its usefulness within desires as a component of human welfare, some concerns should be addressed, especially on presuming that all desires are rational and considering externals that affect them. Hence, objective list theory becomes the more plausible standpoint on the topic as it appreciates multiple aspects associated with an individual‘s happiness.
Knowledge as the Pinnacle of Human Well-Being
However, upon analyzing hedonism and subjectivism theories, it becomes evident that knowledge is the highest item on an objective list theory regarding the notion of human goodness.
Intrinsic Value of Knowledge
In particular, knowledge within the objective list theory is not just a tool for accomplishing desires or experiencing pleasure. Knowledge has an inherent value that forms the basis of its relevance in our quest for human welfare. Knowledge’s value is much deeper than satisfying desires, for it can last longer with regard to people as well as societies.
Knowledge acts as an illumination that leads people toward a fuller understanding of themselves and other aspects of this world. By seeing knowledge as worthwhile, we admit that it is more substantial and lasting than many other pursuits, which are recognized simply because they belong to our subjective preferences.
Empowering Individuals and Society
Knowledge becomes a formidable instrument of individual and collective empowerment. The latter extends to areas beyond the personal, encompassing critical thinking, solving problems, and comprehending the intricacies of the universe. Consequently, people with knowledge begin acting as a force for good change towards society’s development.
Knowledge holds the power and empowerment for the person beyond individual cognitive growth. Knowledge should be valued and promoted in a society, for it leads to innovations, scientific breakthroughs, and socio-cultural development (Hargreaves 16). Thus, the collective effect of knowledgeable people runs in all directions with the idea that there is a good cycle where people enrich the community for the better.
In addition, knowledge becomes an agent of social rejuvenation and flexibility. In this complex time where changes emerge so fast, a knowledgeable society is very capable of overcoming problems, solving complicated situations, making the right decisions with a long-term perspective and creating favorable conditions for future generations’ prosperity (Bandy). Therefore, from the perspective of objective list theory, knowledge appears to be the supreme form of human happiness as it is good in itself, empowers people, and benefits societies.
Knowledge is pursued beyond the short-lived desires and pleasures in order to attain a more rewarding, wise and beneficial human world. Interacting with knowledge makes people feel significant. Pursuing knowledge enables people to satisfy their mental hunger, gain different insights, and assist in comprehending humanity in general terms. In the first place, it is through this that such kind of purpose based on knowledge results in the general wellness levels.
Knowledge is significant because it has a deep internal essence according to subjective nominalism. There is a distinction between instrumental knowledge that gives momentary satisfaction and fulfills our wishes and knowledge as an ultimate value, which is an everlasting treasure. With this, obtaining knowledge transcends merely individual whims or preferences into an essential contribution made to the person’s own life as well as to all societies. This knowledge has an inner value, for it is outside the realm of immediate satisfaction. Knowledge is permanent, and unlike all other forms of pleasure, it does not fade away in time but leaves an indelible mark on the intellectual landscape of the individual.
Knowledge qualifies for this position because it is an enduring good that provides value in the face of changing desires and fleeting pleasures. Such knowledge becomes a strong force that not only enriches the individual but makes the society empowered. Knowledge development promotes critical reasoning processes, the ability to tackle problems, and advanced comprehension of life. Knowledge is essential in equipping individuals to understand various aspects of life with a sense of purpose and making meaningful contributions towards development at an individual level.
A knowledge-focused culture creates a favorable culture within the society whereby innovations, scientific breakthroughs and developments in the cultural sphere can thrive. In addition, knowledge-seeking transcends pragmatic gains. It gives meaning and direction in life to people. A satisfying source of life-long learning emanates from a journey whereby one explores one’s intellectual curiosity to discover new things and contributes to a deeper understanding of humanity. The feeling that a sense of purpose stemming from knowledge is vital for people’s general welfare as they create meaningful links between their own development and that of all in the community.
Knowledge offers a form of empowerment that transcends into the realm of societal changes. The society consists of informed persons who are full of knowledge. Society is formed out of intellectuals who value the same concept. A virtuous cycle is formed, with individual intelligence reinforcing national development and vice versa.
When it comes to the highest level of human welfare, according to objective list theory, knowledge is not just a way to achieve a desired outcome but something good in its own nature. Thus, knowledge is the supreme good due to its eternal character as well as the empowering role played in society’s development.
Counterarguments and Considerations:
Though, there are several weaknesses in such theorizing of human well-being. However, some critics may contend that placing knowledge as the greatest good ignores other aspects of a person’s life or welfare.
For example, happiness, fitness, and relations with friends are components that makeup one’s flourishing life, which shouldn’t get shadowed by the search for truth. Some critics would argue that concentrating only on knowledge might create a disproportionate picture of health and happiness. Further, questions may arise about who controls what is knowledge and what has value. In other words, for different cultures, societies may understand differing notions of what knowledge is important or useful. Universal acceptable standards concerning the highest good may be threatened due to the subjectivity of what is known as “good” influenced by culture, time, place, etc.
Additionally, the possibility of elitism that comes with giving priority to knowledge is a cause for concern. However, if it is assumed that knowledge stands for the zenith of welfare, one may end up designing hierarchies that leave out people who do not have formal education or indigenous forms of wisdom. In considering such concerns, inclusivity and diversity in defining and valuing knowledge are vital.
In a nutshell, before concluding that knowledge alone defines happiness, one must reflect upon opposing arguments and adopt a more comprehensive view toward overall welfare. The diverse aspects of human flourishing include the emotional, the physical, and the social components; hence, understanding the highest good is the sum of all these parts in individuals should be thorough. Objective List theory with knowledge as its basis for navigation of these complexities is robust and open for dialogue.
Works Cited
Atus Mariqueo-Russell. “Desire and Motivation in Desire Theories of Well-Being.” Philosophical Studies, vol. 180, no. 7, 6 May 2023, pp. 1975–1994, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11098-023-01966-y.
Bandy, Joe. “Learning to Apply Knowledge and Skills to Benefit Others or Serve the Public Good | IDEA.” Www.ideaedu.org, Vanderbilt University, www.ideaedu.org/idea-notes-on-learning/learning-to-apply-knowledge-and-skills-to-benefit-others-or-serve-the-public-good/. Accessed 24 Nov. 2023.
Hargreaves, Andy. Teaching in the Knowledge Society: Education in the Age of Insecurity. Google Books, Teachers College Press, 1 Jan. 2003, p. 16, books.google.co.ke/books?hl=en&lr=&id=DjIOTa2fg-MC&oi=fnd&pg=PR9&dq=The+value+of+knowledge+is+a+lot+deeper+than+satisfying+desires. Accessed 24 Nov. 2023.
“Subjectivity and Objectivity (Philosophy).” Wikipedia, 4 Nov. 2023, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subjectivity_and_objectivity_(philosophy). Accessed 24 Nov. 2023.
Weijers, Dan. “Hedonism | Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy.” Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy, 2022, iep.utm.edu/hedonism/.
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