2007-09-23 04:49:17 · 38 answers · asked by nickywireobsessive 4 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Philosophy
me too doodle!
2007-09-23 05:00:37 · update #1
There is a difference, but there should not be. I think the distinction is needed to allow for differences depending on the factors one relates to the definition of these terms which are concepts that cover many aspects of life.
Aristotle spoke to this Q. Look up the terms *eudemonia or *eudemonics.
sidenote: defining the concepts is part of the process of understanding what is part of them and the activities and thinking that may lead to happiness. The happiest and most content people are also the wisest.
2007-09-23 05:01:05 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 1⤋
Very much so. When we are content, we don't take issue with what exists or how it exist. When we are content, we have no desire to change something. If we are discontented, we want to change things.
Happiness, in contrast, is an elated or euphoric state. Contentment is an acceptance and appreciate for what is. Our culture has perpetuated the notion that we should be happy which rules out the possibility for contentment. After all, if you aren't happy then there must be a problem and something must change.
Happiness is problematic though which is what lead to the development of hedonism and epicurean philosophies. Anything that provides happiness can become problematic. You may love eating, but too much eating and you may become overweight and unhealthy. Hedonism and epicurean beliefs emerged to try and balance the desire for happiness but to stave off the consequences.
Drink if it makes you happy, but not to excess would be the hedonist and epicurean approach.
2007-09-23 05:02:29 · answer #2 · answered by guru 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
On a scale of positive emotions, contentment is the least positive and rates next to boredom which is a negative emotion. If we use seven gradations contentment would be the seventh. Happiness rates as being in the third level. Passion is in the second.
The top level contains a number of positive emotions including joy, knowledge, empowerment, freedom, love, and appreciation.
There are at least 15 levels of negative emotions. The positive feel good and the negative feel bad, therefore it can be said that there are only two emotions. The main ingredient is the degree of powerfulness/powerlessness which one feels.
2007-09-23 05:46:59 · answer #3 · answered by canron4peace 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hi Nicky:
I think that contentment is really just being comfortable and just "settling". Happiness is a feeling deep inside that is far more than just to "settle". Happiness it real, it brings warmth, love, smiles and peace to us both inside and out. Contentment is just being complacent. You dont have those intense feelings of warmth, smiles, peace and love.
With contentment you just are. Happiness you are elevated and still want more happiness because of the way it makes you feel.
I am not sure if I am explaining myself right so I hope that you understand what I am trying to say.
Never settle for contentment, strive for happiness at all times no matter what.
Be safe and be well.
J
2007-09-24 00:00:49 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
When you are content, you are okay with your status, you don't mind it.But the truth is that you would not mind a better one just you are not working on it.
Happiness is a state of things being really good that you are proud and excited about. You would not chose to leave that state for anything.
Happiness is a state higher than contentment and we should all try and achive it
2007-09-24 23:20:35 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Once you experience a high level of ecstasy, you will never be contented with less. You will always be in search for a similar state of mind. Unfortunately, happiness is a misleading term. Many things can make you "happy" - i.e., cheerful, joyous, etc .., but nothing can bring you pure happiness in this world. All our joys are mixed with bitterness, so the best we can aspire for is contentment as a state of mind on a long term of living, and very short moments of super joy or cheerfulness on a short term because they will soon simmer down to contentment.
2007-09-23 05:09:08 · answer #6 · answered by arabianbard 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Yes indeed! Happiness is temporary, which could cease to be at any moment. contentment is a situation, where your mind is fulfilled of your wishes, wants, needs etc. in the empirical level. Transcendentally, contentment shall be bliss, as Buddha found it, and all the great Rishis of ancient India.
2007-09-23 05:16:59 · answer #7 · answered by Dr. Girishkumar TS 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Personally speaking, happiness is an elated, sparkling, heady feeling. "Walking on air" is not wholly a cliche. Contentment, on the other hand, is a secure, balanced feeling of well being. I liken happiness to a roller coaster, which sharp, breathtaking highs and lows. Contentment is like easy, rolling grasslands.
2007-09-23 04:56:32 · answer #8 · answered by claudiacake 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Yes, definitely.
I'd say that contentment is a more or less constant state of mind; when you enjoy what you have and what you are.
Happiness is an occasional fleeting feeling, when you are living in the moment and are suddenly aware of the beauty of being alive.
I hope you have both x
sue
2007-09-23 05:55:04 · answer #9 · answered by susannah2b 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Being content means one is content with how life is for them ups or downs.
Being happy is being joyful but can often be affected by lifes ups and downs to the point that happy and joyful is not constant.
Being content is constant.
2007-09-23 04:57:03 · answer #10 · answered by Jewel 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋