The Pursuit of Happiness: A Historical and Philosophical Exploration

The concept of the pursuit of happiness in the Declaration of Independence represents a fundamental principle that every individual should have the freedom to define and pursue their own form of happiness without undue interference from a despotic government.

According to the Declaration of Independence, 'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.' This principle can be traced back to the idea of inherent rights and human liberty as espoused by the English philosopher John Locke in his Second Treatise on Government.

Influences on the Declaration of Independence

Thomas Jefferson, the author of the Declaration of Independence, borrowed heavily from John Locke's principle that individuals have the right to 'life, liberty, and property.' Jefferson substituted 'the pursuit of happiness' for 'property' in his draft. This substitution reflects a broader philosophical and ethical framework that emphasizes individual freedom and happiness.

Jefferson was heavily influenced by the Greek and Roman philosophical tradition. In an essay by Carol Hamilton, it is noted that Jefferson invoked a Greek and Roman notion of civic virtues and a broader concept of social happiness. Jefferson, in particular, admired Epicurus and owned eight copies of De rerum Natura (On the Nature of Things) by Lucretius, a Roman philosopher and disciple of Epicurus. In a letter to William Short dated October 13, 1819, Jefferson declared, 'I too am an Epicurean. I consider the genuine doctrines of Epicurus as containing everything rational in moral philosophy which Greece and Rome have left us.'

Jefferson summarized the key points of Epicurean doctrine, which include:

Moral - Happiness as the aim of life Virtue as the foundation of happiness Utility as the test of virtue

According to the Epicurean philosophy as understood by the Founding Fathers, the pursuit of happiness is not merely a matter of individual pleasure, but is connected to the civic virtues of courage, moderation, and justice. These virtues are understood to be communal and social in nature, contributing to a larger concept of social and civic happiness.

The Connection to Civic Virtues

Furthermore, when John Locke, Samuel Johnson, and Thomas Jefferson wrote about 'the pursuit of happiness,' they were referencing the Greek and Roman philosophical tradition in which happiness is tied to civic virtues. These virtues are not just personal attributes but are integral to the social and communal life of a society. Alexander Hamilton, a fellow Founding Father, referred to this as 'social happiness.' This concept highlights the interdependence of individual happiness and social well-being.

As we approach a new political season, it is important to consider the principles of the Declaration of Independence and how they intersect with contemporary political discourse. The pursuit of happiness as a fundamental right is deeply rooted in the historical and philosophical traditions of Western thought. Understanding this can help us navigate the complexities of modern political debates and the challenge of creating a society that truly supports the pursuit of individual and communal happiness.

In conclusion, the pursuit of happiness as articulated in the Declaration of Independence is a multifaceted concept that balances personal freedom with social responsibility. By studying the historical and philosophical roots of this principle, we can better appreciate its significance in fostering a more just and harmonious society.

Key Takeaways:

The pursuit of happiness is a fundamental right in the Declaration of Independence. Thomas Jefferson draws heavily from John Locke's principle of life, liberty, and property. Epicurean philosophy emphasizes the pursuit of happiness through civic virtues. Social and civic happiness are concepts deeply rooted in the philosophy of the Founding Fathers.

Keywords: Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson, John Locke, Happiness