On the notion of well-being

Abstract

The aim of the article is to present a formal definition of well-being and to search for a quality that would allow to differentiate prudential values from other kinds of values. In order to achieve this aim, I will first look at a historical discussion run in analytical philosophy. This will allow me to state how not to understand the notion of well-being. Then, I will concentrate on a positive definition. I hope to be able to offer a necessary (though not sufficient) requirement for all prudential values.

Keywords

• well-being
• good for us
• good for the world
• resonance requirement
• F. Feldman
• P. Railton