Happiness and the Psychology of Enlightenment : An Investigation into Methods and Results

Abstract

Whilst happiness usually comes from how we think and feel about our life (eventbased wellbeing), enlightenment is an internal experience not sourced from this process (inner wellbeing). In this volume, we look from a scientific point of view at the different approaches to enlightenment and the practices that trigger it. This includes classical Western approaches to contemplation and aesthetics, Eastern Buddhist notions of satori, modern predictors of selftranscendent experiences, assessments of current practitioners and their characteristics, Christian notions of mysticism, Hindu yoga practices, the neuroscientific correlates of flourishing, and the psychological stages in the journey to enlightenment. We explore the evidence of these states, traits and experiences, the concepts underpinning them, and the affect, cognition and behaviour they transform.