Eudaimonism

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A philosophical view advocates that true fulfillment arises from living virtuously and realizing one’s potential, emphasizing moral action and personal growth as keys to happiness
2. This belief underscores that authentic well-being is rooted in ethical behavior and self-actualization, promoting the idea that a life of virtue leads to deeper satisfaction
3. A philosophical doctrine posits that genuine happiness stems from virtuous living and the pursuit of one’s potential, highlighting the importance of ethical conduct and personal development for well-being

Etymology: Ancient Greek "eudaimōn" literally meant "having a good daimōn," and a daimōn was a guiding spirit or divine presence attached to a person. To be eudaimōn was to have a favourable spirit watching over you, so the word's core sense was good fortune rather than the inner moral state it later came to signify. Over time, Greek philosophers redirected the word toward a life that goes well through virtue, and "eudaimonia" became their name for the highest human good. English took the idea from that philosophical tradition. "Eudaimonism" is a learned borrowing from Ancient Greek, formed on the same root as "eudaimonia," and it names the doctrine that happiness is found in virtuous action and the realisation of one's capacities. The spelling "eudaemonism," with the "ae" digraph, is an equally accepted variant.