
Contents
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Introduction Introduction
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Defining Eudaimonia as a Way of Living Defining Eudaimonia as a Way of Living
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The Eudaimonic Activity Model The Eudaimonic Activity Model
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What Empirical Research Reveals about Eudaimonic Motives and Activities What Empirical Research Reveals about Eudaimonic Motives and Activities
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Supporting the Better Angels of Our Nature Supporting the Better Angels of Our Nature
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Conclusion Conclusion
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References References
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15 Self-Determination Theory as the Science of Eudaimonia and Good Living: Promoting the Better Side of Human Nature
Get accessFrank Martela, School of Science, Aalto University
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Published:23 February 2023
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Abstract
What makes life good, and what should we ultimately strive for in order to have a valuable and flourishing existence? One of the key appeals of self-determination theory (SDT) is that it provides an empirical research program that can illuminate many of the fundamental issues revolving around the question of good living. Within SDT, eudaimonia is seen as a way of living characterized by intrinsic goals, autonomous motivation, and psychological need satisfaction that are all conducive to produce subjective well-being. This chapter reviews how SDT defines eudaimonia, the role of psychological needs in eudaimonia, and what empirical research tells us about more eudaimonic motives and activities for human beings. It concludes by discussing prosocial motivation and the crucial role of social contexts in nurturing or thwarting basic psychological needs, thus significantly affecting whether the brighter or darker side of human nature becomes prominent, and whether the person is able to flourish.
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