When it comes to the question of the possibility of happiness, I think to myself, what is happiness? Sigmund Freud also contemplated this question in one of his most famous books, “Civilization and its Discontents”. Freud did not come to a definite conclusion, but he did contrast some very significant arguments.
In order to find a true definition of happiness, first human nature must be defined. Freud described human nature as universal, filled with instinctive drives. These instinctive drives lead to the fulfillment that constitutes happiness in the most basic of forms. After Freud described the basic form of human nature, he went on to argue the constitutions of happiness.
Freud did not believe that happiness was a value, but rather the result of avoidance of pain, then the achievement of pleasure. Freud believed that these actions were part of the human psyche and were natural instincts. Freud discusses that humans are essentially pursuing this happiness because it is an ancient and inevitable instinct for humans to seek happiness.
However, humans have found themselves stuck in societies that supply a false consciousness. As humans have strived for happiness and self-satisfaction in the past, they have entered a society that finds suitable replacements for these basic, instinctual needs. Societies have given individuals the ability to purchase materialistic goods and ideologies that promote individualism and self-pride. Goods such as clothing, housing and delicious food help distract individuals from their basic needs. The health care system and protection by society also give the individuals a sense of unnatural happiness.
In conclusion, I have considered both sides to whether happiness can be achieved or not. My thoughts have come to an indefinite conclusion, much like Sigmund Freud’s arguments. I have found that happiness is possible to be achieved in today’s society, and the level of happiness has been increasing as our society develops. I have also found that this happiness that has been achieved in society is not true happiness which human nature strives for. Society has created a false image of happiness that has distracted the majority of individuals from their basic instincts. I believe that it is up to the individual to define what true happiness is for themselves, whether it is created by society or accomplished by instinctual, basic nature.
Work Cited: Sigmund Freud, “Civilization and its Discontents”
I think Freud would respond to by saying that it is impossible for a person to decide on their own definition of happiness when that individual may not be aware of their most basic libidinal urges (which constitute the Id). If we cannot change these basic drives, can we choose what happiness for ourselves?
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