Kingston Philosophy Café

An informal discussion on the politics and philosophy of happiness, timed to follow the May General Election. Should we elect and judge our political parties and governments on GNH rather than GNP? Can we define happiness, or pursue it directly, or measure it? We will discuss some ideas on the topic, including those of classic Utilitarian philosophers John Stuart Mill and Jeremy Bentham and the findings of the “new science of happiness”. This discussion may well develop some of the themes of Kate Soper’s talk in March as well as some of the questions about “The Good Society” raised by Michael McCarthy last year, but don’t worry if you missed those, you can still join in. 

You can find Marilyn Mason's introduction to the topic and the extracts we will be discussing at http://www.e-voice.org.uk/kingstonphilosophycafe/files/view/philosophy-cafe-briefings/Gross_national_happiness_discussion.doc.