While we didn't necessarily discuss the relevant topic at hand, we did nail down what we're doing for the group project. We're going to look at self-help and advice from a myriad of sources (one for each of us individually). Then, as a group, we'll be comparing and contrasting them to find a commonality among these guides to happiness. I would like it if we could all post what our sources are or a general hint as to where we'll be getting the material in the comments below (alongside anything we'd like to say about the discussion on Freud/Russell and our factual/discussion questions for next class). I'll be tackling the Panic Attack recovery book that I mentioned, complete with a seven step system (and will comment with the full details of the book later when I have it in hand).
As for Freud and Russell, I don't feel comfortable dismissing either of their notions in entirety. Like James mentioned, if we set a cap on happiness, how are we to conceive of improvement? (I.E., I'm the happiest that I could ever be, in this specific context, because each instance is a subjective, individual occurrence of happiness.) How could we compare and contrast different moments of happiness if we must judge them in and of themselves? Does this then play in to Freud's idea that happiness is somewhat of an illusion, being that there is no "true," conceptual, ideal happiness? Likewise, if there is no cap, how are we to appreciate what happiness we currently have while there will always be a higher level to attain? Just some questions to throw around as we discuss the material from last class.
I am really stoked for your group's presentation! I think it will be very interesting. :)
ReplyDelete“The list of things which we absolutely know, is not a long one, and we have not the luck to add a fresh one to it often, but I recognized that I had added one to mine this day. I knew, now, that it isn’t safe to sit in judgment upon another person’s illusion when you are not on the inside. While you are thinking it is a dream, he may be knowing it is a planet.”
–Mark Twain, A Thousand Years Among the Microbes
http://www.rooshv.com/18-reasons-why-you-dont-get-laid
ReplyDeletehttp://www.pick-up-artist-forum.com/
http://manboobz.com/category/pua/
"Pick up artistry" is self-help with misogynist packaging. An excellent example of adopting others' ideas of success and happiness hypo-critically, as well.
Factual question: Who wrote the song, "No Surprises", in which a conventional conception of success, happiness, contentment is satirized?
Answer: Radiohead
Discussion question: Do you agree or disagree with Louis C.K.'s comments on happiness and technology (as shown in a video on this blog)? Why or why not?
I agree with what CK was saying. I think many of us are guilty for getting sucked into technology to some extent, but CK points out some real consequences that wouldn't be funny if it wasn't said his way. I think the most important things to take away from it include how detrimental technology can be to today's society, youth in particular, whether it's cyberbullying, ruining the next generation's communication skills, or even texting and driving.
DeleteOoo, great suggestion Alexander! Pick Up artists are definitely a self-help that exemplifies the pressure to mimic others' behavior for desired results. It's one of the ultimate "don't be yourself, just follow these steps" system.
DeleteThough, in light of reading a few "new age" pick up guidelines, some of these are more along the lines of building emotional confidence in one's self in order to provide the emotional support for a potential life mate. Some of them aren't misogynistic at all...
DeleteIf anything, I would consider that an offshoot of standard PUA or at least an attempt on their part to justify it. The heart of PUA is trying to seduce women, which is to say input behaviors which will cause women to output sex and affection.
Deletehttp://www.pualingo.com/pua-terminology-list/
It is abundantly clear when considering their techniques at the source (meaning communicating to each other, not to outsiders).
http://www.pualingo.com/pua-definitions/kino-escalation/
So much as a PUA would like to say it is mere confidence building, techniques such as these demonstrate otherwise.
http://markmanson.net/books/models?ppid=67
DeleteThis is the one I was referencing, with a focus on honesty :)
Factual question: Who was Horace telling of when describing the deluded bliss of a wealthy Greek merchant who enjoyed spending time in an empty arena happily imagining performances?
ReplyDeleteAnswer: Lycas of Argos
Discussion question: Did the experience machine question invoke the same response as the story of the deluded bliss of Lycas? Why or why not?
I'm doing "Gearslutz" a specific internet forum for audio engineers, sound designers, and acoustic physicists to talk about high end audio equipment.
ReplyDeleteMy main points are going to be based around 2 threads that I've started on the forum, and 1 recurring "tradition" of sorts. It'll look something like this...
the "Video Game Curse" thread
http://www.gearslutz.com/board/electronic-music-instruments-electronic-music-production/865756-september-2013-new-gear-thread.html
the latest "of the month" thread
http://www.gearslutz.com/board/electronic-music-instruments-electronic-music-production/865756-september-2013-new-gear-thread.html
The relationships thread was blocked for sexism, tehe.
"the Video Game Curse"
1.) Alienation
a.) Effect on Family
b.) The "getaway" from the "getaway", the neurosis and isolation endured by artists suffering writers block.
2.) Approaching the Problem
a.) Micromanagement and Sacrifice.
b.) Lifestyle choices.
c.) DUH, BUY MORE GEAR.
"New Gear Of The Month"
1.) Materialism and Art
a.) Art, Utility, Excess, and Happiness
b.) Modes of Happiness from Retail Therapy
2.) Failure of Material Gain
a.) Writers Block
b.) "Hey, it's me again, back after I thought I was happy."
c.) DUH, BUY MORE GEAR.
"Married to a Martyr"
1.) Relationships with Artists
a.) Sex Life
b.) Wife and Kids Experience
2.) Detachment, Bliss, and Puppy Love
a.) Variation of personality amongst mates.
b.) Rate of "happiness" quantifiable within variations of mates.
c.) They dumped me, so I BOUGHT MORE GEAR.
http://piclols.com/pics/4tvvx/Louis-C-K-Farts.html
ReplyDeleteLmao
Deletehttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/16/happiness-habits-of-exuberant-human-beings_n_3909772.html
ReplyDeletehttp://greatergood.berkeley.edu/pdfs/happycircle-ggsc.pdf