Toward a Psychological Theory of Meaning in Life

Abstract

The concept of meaning in life remains an elusive yet fundamental aspect of human well-being. The lack of a sufficiently analytical definition or explanatory theory of meaning poses a challenge for empirical efforts to study and measure well-being, especially those that seek to conceptualize it based predominantly on mood and pleasure. This paper seeks to take a first step toward defining and explaining meaning while distinguishing it from hedonic pleasure. Various aspects of meaning are considered, including the difference between meaning as a form of positive emotion and as a form of motivation. A preliminary effort is made to construct an organizational framework for meaning, focusing on (i) connection to a long-term concept of self, (ii) emotional richness, and (iii) realization of deep personal values. This framework points to an account of meaningful experiences as emotionally intense states in which people reflect on and tap into values central to their personal identity. The paper explores possibilities for future directions in measuring well-being, as well as their limitations. Treating meaning as a distinct component of well-being that is irreducible to hedonic pleasure could help explain certain observed findings in behavioral economics and potentially inform future initiatives in public policy.