The role of the arts and humanities in human flourishing: A conceptual model
Author(s):
Louis Tay
James O. Pawelski
Melissa G. Keith
Publication Year:
2017
Type:
journal article
Journal/Book Title
The Journal of Positive Psychology
Publisher
Editor(s):
Pages:
215-225
Volume:
13
Issue:
3
Abstract:
There is much debate on the value of the arts and humanities in our society. Each side provides strong arguments, but there has been little empirical research to draw on. A key reason for the lack of scientific evidence is the absence of a conceptual model on which to base investigations of the ways the arts and the humanities might contribute to human flourishing. To address this, we present a model to demarcate the domain of the arts and humanities by means of an extensional definition (e.g. majors, disciplines, and occupations) integrated with a functional analysis (i.e. modes of engagement and activities of involvement). We suggest immersion, embeddedness, socialisation, and reflectiveness as mechanisms by which the arts and humanities may enhance various forms of human flourishing. We conclude with implications of the model and ideas for future research to investigate the effects of the arts and humanities on human flourishing.
Citation (Chicago Author-Date):
Tay, Louis, James O. Pawelski, and Melissa G. Keith. 2017. “The Role of the Arts and Humanities in Human Flourishing: A Conceptual Model.” The Journal of Positive Psychology 13 (3): 215–25. https://doi.org/10.1080/17439760.2017.1279207.