On the Synergy Between Hedonia and Eudaimonia: The Role of Passion

Abstract

Much discussion in the field of positive psychology has taken place on the role of two perspectives on happiness. The first, hedonia, focuses on positive experiences per se, while the second, eudaimonia, posits that happiness is to be found in self-realization in line with one’s true self. Although these two positions are often seen as antagonistic, it is suggested in this chapter that they can also go hand in hand. Specifically, it is seen that passion for a given activity can trigger positive hedonic experiences (i.e., positive emotions) that, in turn, promote eudaimonic well-being and self-growth. Further, it is also showed that such a synergetic relationship between hedonia and eudaimonia is more likely to happen when the passion is harmonious (the passion is under the person’s control) than when it is obsessive (the person is controlled by one’s passion). I conclude the chapter with some further thoughts on the role of passion in the hedonia-eudaimonia interface.