A University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences professor is tackling the definition of happiness in conjunction with teachings from Aristotle and recent research surrounding positive psychology in a Sept. 22 lecture at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. 

Dr. Erick Messias, associate professor of psychiatry and associate dean for faculty affairs for UAMS College of Medicine, will give the talk, “The Philosophy – and Psychology – of Happiness – An Introduction,” Friday, Sept. 22, at noon in Ottenheimer Library Room 535.

In his talk, Messias will address the definition of happiness and the difficulty psychiatrists face in addressing happiness. He will explore how philosophy and psychology address happiness by examining Aristotle’s concepts of virtue, excellence, and happiness in combination of recent findings and research of positive psychology.

The event, which is free and open to the public, is sponsored by the UA Little Rock Department of Philosophy. Refreshments will be provided.

For more information, contact Dr. Jana McAuliffe at jxmcauliffe@gmail.com or 501.569.3109.