ABSTRACT
Since the turn of the twenty-first century, the field of positive psychology has sought to implement a science of human flourishing so that we may lead happier, more fulfilling lives. It has found expression not only in academic papers but also popular books and, increasingly, in government policy. The Routledge International Handbook of Critical Positive Psychology is the first volume dedicated to a critical appraisal of this influential but controversial field of study.
The book critically examines not only the scientific foundations of positive psychology, but also the sociocultural and political tenets on which the field rests. It evaluates the current field of knowledge and practice, and includes chapters analysing the methodological constructs of the field, as well as others that question what positive psychology actually means by ideas such as happiness or well-being. Taking the debate further, the book then discusses how positive psychology can be applied in a wider variety of settings than is presently the case, helping communities and individuals by acknowledging the reality of people’s lives rather than adhering strictly to debateable theoretical constructs.
Including contributions from disciplines ranging from psychoanalysis to existential therapy, theology to philosophy, and contributors from throughout the world, The Routledge International Handbook of Critical Positive Psychology will be enlightening reading for anyone interested in how psychology has sought to understand human well-being.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
section 1|182 pages
Criticism of positive psychology
chapter 2|11 pages
The unavoidable role of values in positive psychology
chapter 3|27 pages
Taking a closer look at well-being as a scientific construct
chapter 7|18 pages
Community psychology’s contributions to happiness and well-being
section |16 pages
Interlude 1
chapter 13|14 pages
Five historic philosophers discuss human flourishing and happiness in positive psychology
section 2|183 pages
Doing positive psychology critically
chapter 15|18 pages
Affirming the positive in anomalous experiences
chapter 16|18 pages
Uncovering the good in positive psychology
chapter 20|22 pages
Character strengths as critique
chapter 22|17 pages
Positive politics
section |12 pages
Interlude 2
section 3|161 pages
Applied perspectives