Description and Objectives

Recent scientific research is shedding light on the topic of human flourishing. There is solid data that correlates patterns of behavior that contribute to thriving and also other practices that lead to negative outcomes. Though this research is often thought of as associated with the social sciences, it actually cuts across many disciplines, and requires a broad-minded approach to adequately understand. Human flourishing is a topic that invites understanding how sociological data relates, for example, to the biochemical pathways in the brain, the science of addictions and the way a transcendent vision of the human person contributes to wellbeing. Students taking this course will examine scientific data and how this data relates to other modes of thinking.

Topics to be addressed include:

• The value of setting personal goals and seeing a vocational dimension to life
• Social media
• Addictions
• The importance of community
• Biochemistry of endorphins
• Anxiety and depression
• The transcendent vision of the human person
• The human person created male and female
• Dating relationships and preparing for marriage

 

Textbooks

Texts that will be studied include:

• The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
• Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
• Wild at Heart by John Eldregde
• Selections from Dr. Kevin Majeres, Peggy Noonan and more

Course Requirements

 

Successful Students

 

Additional Resources