Can We Imagine Sisyphus Happy? An Analysis of Wolf's Hybrid View and Empirical Insights to Find Meaning in Life

Abstract

Through critical analysis of Susan Wolf’s hybrid view of finding the meaning in life, I evaluate empirical insights to deeply examine the factors that contribute to meaningfulness in life. By first engaging with objective and subjective views of well-being, I am able to lay the foundation for a revised theory of finding meaning in life. I argue that flow states and vital engagement can help determine what kinds of things are objectively valuable, and I find that hive psychology has implications for a theory that shifts the focus away from the highly individualistic perspective that Wolf holds. I discuss a revised version of Wolf’s view before endorsing my own. Finally, I apply my theory of finding meaning in life to the central example in this essay, Sisyphus.