An Integrated Model of Happiness: Bridging Epistemology, Psychology, and Ethics

• Abdul Moten

  International Islamic University Malaysia

  Author

Abstract

Contemporary discussions on happiness are often dominated by materialist and secular paradigms that emphasise subjective well-being and emotional satisfaction. In contrast, the Islamic intellectual tradition presents a holistic and teleological conception of happiness (saʿādah and falāḥ) grounded in knowledge, virtue, and spiritual realisation. Drawing upon the insights of both Muslim and Western scholars, this study proposes an integrated model of happiness that bridges epistemology, psychology, and ethics. It argues that genuine happiness cannot be reduced to temporary emotional states or material prosperity; rather, it emerges from the harmonious integration of sound knowledge, inner transformation, and ethical conduct. The study examines how epistemological orientation shapes psychological well-being and ethical behaviour, thereby producing a coherent framework for holistic human flourishing. It further contends that the fragmentation of knowledge and the secular separation between morality and spirituality contribute significantly to contemporary experiences of anxiety, alienation, and existential dissatisfaction. In response, the paper proposes an integrated worldview that unites the intellectual, spiritual, moral, and social dimensions of human existence. A pilot qualitative application of the proposed framework indicates broad support for its relevance and feasibility, while also highlighting the need for contextual flexibility and further empirical refinement.

 Keywords: Happiness, Islamic epistemology; Virtue ethics; Holistic well-being, Spiritual psychology

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