Question 1

Are eudaimonic and hedonic wellbeing the same thing?

Accepted Answer

No, eudaimonic wellbeing comes from meaning and growth, hedonic wellbeing comes from pleasure and comfort, and they can genuinely move in opposite directions.

Question 2

Can a choice increase meaning while decreasing comfort?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a demanding but purposeful challenge can increase eudaimonic wellbeing while decreasing hedonic wellbeing in the short term.

Question 3

Does a comfortable, easy period always mean high overall wellbeing?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily, it can offer high hedonic wellbeing while offering relatively little eudaimonic growth or meaning.

Question 4

How can I evaluate a decision using both types of wellbeing?

Accepted Answer

Assess its effect on meaning and growth separately from its effect on pleasure and comfort, rather than treating wellbeing as one combined measure.

Eudaimonic vs Hedonic Wellbeing: Meaning vs Pleasure