The science of happiness

Aims of the course

This course aims to:

1. Understand the various factors that contribute to happiness and well-being;
2. Be familiar with a range of techniques and practices for increasing happiness;
3. Be able to apply the latest research on happiness to your own life.

Content

Biochemical feedback mechanisms are focal facilitators of happiness, referring to the ways in which various chemicals and hormones in the body interact to regulate certain bodily functions and behaviours. In the context of happiness, several key biochemical pathways are involved in regulating sensations of well-being, bliss and pleasure.

One such pathway involves the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine is released in the brain in response to pleasurable stimuli, such as food, sex, and social interaction. It is believed to play a key role in reinforcing behaviours that lead to these pleasurable experiences, and can contribute to feelings of happiness and satisfaction.

Another important neurotransmitter in the regulation of happiness is serotonin. Serotonin is involved in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite, and is often referred to as the "happiness hormone." Low levels of serotonin are associated with depression and anxiety, while higher levels are thought to contribute to feelings of well-being and happiness.

Other hormones and chemicals, such as oxytocin and endorphins, are also involved in regulating happiness and well-being. Oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone," is released in response to social bonding and can contribute to feelings of happiness and connection. Endorphins are natural painkillers that are released in response to physical activity and can contribute to feelings of happiness and euphoria.

There are several common misconceptions about happiness that can prevent people from effectively pursuing and achieving this important goal. One misconception is that happiness is a fixed trait, meaning that some people are simply "born happy" while others are not. In reality, happiness is a dynamic state that can change over time and is influenced by a range of internal and external factors. Another misconception is that happiness is dependent on external circumstances, such as wealth, success, or material possessions. While these things can certainly contribute to happiness, research has shown that they are not the primary drivers of well-being. Instead, factors such as strong social connections, a sense of purpose and meaning in life, and the ability to cope with stress and adversity are more strongly related to happiness. A third misconception is that happiness is a constant, uninterrupted state. In reality, happiness involves both positive and negative emotions, and it is normal to experience a range of emotions over the course of a day or a lifetime.

In this course, we will delve into the latest research on happiness and well-being, and explore the various factors that contribute to these states of being. We will examine the role of genetics, personality, and social relationships in determining happiness, and discuss the impact of stress, adversity, and negative emotions on well-being. We will also explore practical strategies for increasing happiness, such as cultivating gratitude, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in activities that bring joy and meaning to our lives.

Presentation of the course

This course on the science of happiness will be presented through a combination of lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities.

Lectures: The instructor will give presentations on various topics related to the science of happiness, drawing from the latest research and theories in the field. These lectures may include multimedia components, such as slides, videos, and interactive elements, to engage you and help you better understand the material.

Discussions: You will have the opportunity to engage in small group or whole class discussions about the topics covered in the course. These discussions will be facilitated by the instructor or student leaders, and will provide you with the chance to share your thoughts, ideas, and experiences related to happiness and well-being.

Hands-on activities: The course will also include practical exercises and activities that allow you to apply the concepts you are learning. These would include mindfulness practices, gratitude journaling, or other activities designed to increase well-being and happiness.

Overall, the course will be structured to provide you with a well-rounded understanding of the science of happiness, and to give you the opportunity to learn about and apply this knowledge to your own life.

Class sessions

1. The definition and measurement of happiness In this session, we will explore the various definitions of happiness and well-being, and discuss the ways in which these states of being can be measured. We will also examine the role of subjective and objective well-being in determining happiness.
2. The role of genetics and personality in happiness In this session, we will explore the ways in which genetics and personality contribute to happiness and well-being. We will discuss the latest research on the genetic and neurological basis of happiness, and examine the ways in which personality traits such as optimism and neuroticism impact well-being.
3. The impact of social connections on happiness In this session, we will discuss the importance of social connections in determining happiness and well-being. We will explore the ways in which strong social relationships contribute to happiness, and discuss the role of loneliness and social isolation in undermining well-being.
4. Strategies for increasing happiness In this session, we will discuss a range of techniques and practices for increasing happiness, including gratitude, mindfulness, and engaging in activities that bring joy and meaning to our lives. We will also explore the role of purpose and meaning in well-being, and discuss strategies for finding and pursuing one's passions and goals.
5. Coping with stress and adversity In this session, we will discuss the ways in which stress and adversity can impact happiness and well-being, and explore strategies for coping with these challenges and building resilience. We will discuss the role of mindfulness and positive thinking in managing stress, and examine the importance of social support in times of adversity.

Learning outcomes

The learning outcomes for this course are:

1. To understand the various factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, including genetics, personality, social connections, and environmental factors;
2. To be familiar with a range of techniques and practices for increasing happiness, such as gratitude, mindfulness, and engaging in activities that bring joy and meaning to our lives;
3. To be able to apply the latest research on happiness to your own life, and to have the knowledge and skills to cultivate greater well-being and happiness on a daily basis.

Required Reading

David Brooks, The Social Animal, Short Books Ltd, 2012.

Discusses the role of social connections and relationships in determining well-being and happiness, and explores the ways in which social interactions shape our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience, Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 2008.

Discusses the concept of flow, a state of optimal experience characterized by complete absorption in an activity, and explores the ways in which flow can contribute to happiness and well-being.

Kelly McGonigal, The Upside of Stress, Vermilion, 2015.

Discusses the ways in which stress can be harnessed as a positive force, and provides strategies for building resilience and coping with stress.

C.R. Snyder and Shane J. Lopez, eds., Positive Psychology: The Scientific and Practical Explorations of Human Strengths, SAGE Publications, Inc, 2006.

Provides an overview of the field of positive psychology and discusses the ways in which positive emotions, thoughts, and behaviors can impact well-being.

Typical week: Monday to Friday

Courses run from Monday to Friday. For each week of study, you select a morning (Am) course and an afternoon (Pm) course. The maximum class size is 25 students. 

Courses are complemented by a series of daily plenary lectures, exploring new ideas in a wide range of disciplines. To add to the learning experience, we are also planning additional evening talks and events.

Evaluation and Academic Credit 

If you are seeking to enhance your own study experience, or earn academic credit from your Cambridge Summer Programme studies at your home institution, you can submit written work for assessment for one or more of your courses. 

Essay questions are set and assessed against the University of Cambridge standard by your Course Director, a list of essay questions can be found in the Course Materials. Essays are submitted two weeks after the end of each course, so those studying for multiple weeks need to plan their time accordingly. There is an evaluation fee of £75 per essay.

For more information about writing essays see Evaluation and Academic Credit.

Certificate of attendance

A certificate of attendance will be sent to you electronically after the programme.