Pleasurable vs. Philanthropic Activities - Which Brings More Happiness?
Author: Martin E. P. Seligman, University of Pennsylvania
Concept: Research on flow and optimism show that positive emotions lasts longer after being engaged in rewarding yet challenging activities than in those that just bring physical or homeostatic pleasure. Students routinely engage in both types of activities, but the common belief is that pleasurable activities are more satisfying than philanthropic ones. This activity will help students become aware of their feelings in regards to these two types of activities and lead to discussion of which type of activity creates more positive affect.
Materials: None
Description: Have students brainstorm and write down what activities they have participated in during the last week that were pleasurable vs. philanthropic. Have them reflect on how those activities differ, how each type of activity made them feel afterward and how long those feelings lasted. After the discussion, instruct students to notice when they participate in activities that are pleasurable and/or philanthropic over the next 3 to 5 days (instructor's choice). They should address the following questions in their papers/discussion:
What were the specific differences in each type of activity?
What type of emotions did you feel during each type of activity?
How long did the generally positive emotions experienced during each type of activity remain with you afterward?
Note: Some students may not feel as though they participate in philanthropic activities. Although likely to be false, this belief may hinder students from completing this activity successfully. Some have argued that assigning philanthropy tends to neutralize the altruistic qualities of the activity, so it may be necessary to assign or suggest some simple philanthropic activities to students who have trouble with the concept. Some suggestions may include:
- Helping someone younger with homework
- Paying someone's toll
- Holding the door open for someone behind you
- Letting someone in front of you in line at a restaurant or store
- Doing chores around the house that are not normally yours or that you weren't asked to do
- Serving in a soup kitchen or homeless shelter
These are only suggestions and might help students more accurately recognize philanthropic activities in their lives.
Discussion: The primary difference between pleasurable and philanthropic activities centers on who is affected by the activity. Pleasurable activities benefit the self while philanthropic ones benefit others. Research on the "good life" suggests that people are happier when they are helping others rather than just benefiting the self.