From Eudaimonia to Ātman: Human Being as the Embodiment of Innate Happiness

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Human beings are endowed with supreme infinite happiness. It is a scientific assertion that happiness is a natural state of human beings. Everyone is pursuing happiness and thinks that it can be attained, but it is already within us; it is realized through self-inquiry and inner reflection. This mirrors the Indian concept of Satchidananda—the timeless reality of Sat (Existence), Cit (Consciousness), and Ānanda (Bliss)—unveiling our ‘self’ as boundless, unified joy attained through self-inquiry and realization. Aristotle’s eudaimonic ethical theory emphasizes discovering one's genuine self and developing it in line with deeper ideals for long-term happiness and potential realization. It centers on activity-based "higher pleasures" for the greater good. Eudaimonic well-being is also connected to the Indian tradition of well-being. It will also explore the process of transforming into the best self that represents perfection and virtue in accordance with reason and contemplation—the nectar of ultimate happiness— which will also be relished. So, this paper explores the innate nature of happiness as the essence of the human being, bridging Aristotelian eudaimonia—defined as virtuous activity in accordance with reason and self-realization—with the Indic concept of ānanda, the supreme bliss of the self (Ātman).