Happiness as the Ideal of Liberal Education

Since the early 2000s, liberal education curricula at universities have undergone significant reforms, with each institution presenting diverse objectives for liberal education. Upon examining these objectives, they ultimately converge on the cultivation of intellectual ability (intellect) and character. However, this study posits that these two aspects are not the ultimate goals of education but rather prerequisites necessary for living a happy life. Therefore, happiness should rightfully take precedence as the primary objective, and among various discussions on the definition and conditions of happiness, the concept of eudaimonia, originating from ancient Greek philosophy—particularly Aristotle—best aligns with the final educational goal of liberal education. To substantiate this argument, this study first reviews the existing objectives of liberal education and explores the perspectives of Plato and Aristotle, who can be regarded as the intellectual foundations of liberal education, particularly concerning intellect and character. Next, it examines the historical development of the concept of Bildung in liberal education and its natural connection to the humanities. Given that the etymology of the humanities (humanitas) presupposes “living well together with others,” this study ultimately aims to demonstrate that the true goal of liberal education is happiness.