Following Frankl's existentialist urgings toward hope and meaning, as well as the humanists’ emphasis on self-actualization, leading scholars in psychology founded "positive psychology" in 1998. Since that time, we now have a better understanding of humans at their best. This worldwide collaborative effort has attempted to balance early psychology’s focus on psychopathology. In this class, we will study correlates to life satisfaction and examine empirical science as well as practical strategies for promoting well being, quality of life, and resilience. We will Skype with leading researchers; engage in experiential activities related to gratitude, hope, altruism, etc.; and seminar with inmates in a state prison.

This section of the class meets on Sundays.  There is also a Saturday section of the class available.