CKMS Philosophical Research Templates

Fr. Edgar G. Javier, SVD, D.Miss., PhD

Thesis Proponent: Proposed Thesis Title:
Manalon, Christian D. Aristotle’s And Bertrand Russell’s notion of
Happiness: A Comparative Analysis

Fundamental Reference Materials (Primary Sources)

BOOKS
F. H. Peters, Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle, London: Kegan Paul, Trench, Trubner
& Co, 1906
The Russell, the Conquest of Happiness, Canada: Live right

Nemeth, Charles P. Finding happiness in a complex world: Rules from Aristotle and Aquinas.
Manchester, NH: Sophia Institute Press, 2022.

Irwin, Terence. “Conceptions of Happiness in the Nicomachean Ethics.” In Oxford University

Press EBooks, 495–528, 2012.

Extended Reference Materials (Secondary Sources)

JOURNALS

Kathleen O’Dwyer. Philosophy Now: A Magazine of Philosophy. Ipswich: Anja Publ,

1991. Print.

Kenny, Anthony J.P. and Amadio, Anselm H. "Aristotle". Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2

Mar. 2021, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Aristotle.

M, Melissa, Aristotle: Nicomachean Ethics Summary. Grade Saver, 3 February 2000,

https://www.gradesaver.com/aristotles-ethics

A. Wood, Bertrand’s Russel: The Passionate Sceptic, George Allen & Unwin Ltd,
UK, 1957 Tim, 8 Causes of Modern Unhappiness. Mission Org
https://medium.com/the-mission/8-causes-of-modern-unhappiness-a78164dd1ec0

Daniel Kahneman, Thinking, Fast and Slow, New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux,
2011
Background of the Study

This study focuses on the concept of happiness, a profound and impactful human emotion, and
its philosophical exploration. Philosophers, from ancient thinkers like Aristotle to modern
philosophers like Bertrand Russell, have delved into the nature of happiness, reflecting on its
essence and implications for human existence. Aristotle, a versatile ancient philosopher,
believed in the teleology of nature, asserting that human's true nature is rooted in rationality,
and the pursuit of happiness aligns with this rational nature. His "Nicomachean Ethics" serves
as a pivotal text in this discussion.

In contrast, Bertrand Russell, a prominent philosopher of the 20th century, examined the
hindrances to happiness during the Great Depression, seeking to understand why privileged
individuals often experienced unhappiness. Russell aimed to raise awareness and propose a
theory of happiness attainment.

This study aims to bridge the perspectives of Aristotle and Russell, shedding light on their
philosophical contributions and assessing the practicality and authenticity of their ideas about
the ultimate good in life. Ultimately, it delves into the timeless quest for happiness and its
profound significance in human existence.

Statement of the Problem Three (3) Sub-problems

The philosophical research paper will focus
on answering the following questions about
the comparative analysis aims to examine and
contrast the philosophical perspectives on
happiness as elucidated by Aristotle and
Bertrand Russell. This study seeks to explore
the key principles, definitions, and arguments
presented by these two renowned
philosophers in their respective works
concerning the nature, pursuit, and attainment
of happiness. By conducting an in-depth
comparative analysis, the research aims to
shed light on the similarities and differences
between Aristotle and Russell's teachings on
happiness, providing a comprehensive
understanding of their divergent philosophical
viewpoints and implications for contemporary
thought and well-being.
The main question is “What can we learn
from Aristotle and Bertrand Russell's views
on happiness, and how can their ideas help us
understand and pursue happiness in our
lives?”
There are three philosophical questions will
focus on answering following problem:
1. What is happiness according to
Aristotle?
2. Why is happiness in the mind of
Bertrand Russell?
3. How do the teachings of Aristotle and
Bertrand Russell on happiness
compare in terms of their similarities
and differences?