Journey to Joy:Exploring the Science of Joy for Designing a Happier Life(SNF Paideia Program Course)

1 Course Unit

This course examines the science of joy as a psychological, cultural, and communicative phenomenon, with an emphasis on how joy can be intentionally designed and cultivated in personal, professional, and social contexts. We will explore the role of joy in human well-being, its potential as an intervention for trauma and grief, and its application in leadership, policymaking, and digital media. Through an interdisciplinary lens, students will analyze the motivations behind joy-seeking behaviors, including self-care, manifestation, social connection, and cultural identity. The course will also investigate how various forms of media—such as social media, entertainment, advertising, and digital storytelling—shape our perceptions of happiness and influence emotional well-being. By engaging with empirical research, real-world case studies, and hands-on user research methods, students will develop (1) a broad understanding of how joy is constructed, communicated, and experienced across different communities and (2) the conceptual and methodological tools to evaluate and design experiences that foster joy in media, technology, and everyday life. Mutually Exclusive: COMM 6030 1 Course Unit