Background on the Human Flourishing Project
Over the past few decades, human flourishing has become a central theme in psychology, intertwining moral philosophy and philosophical anthropology.
The concept of "human flourishing" has evolved significantly since Elizabeth Anscombe (1958) connected it to the Aristotelian idea of happiness as a fulfilled life. Aristotle’s eudaimonia encompasses not just feeling good but living well through the exercise of human virtues, achieving one’s highest potential, and aligning with one’s nature. This classical framework laid the groundwork for contemporary explorations of flourishing, which now include psychological, social, and philosophical dimensions.
Keyes (2002) refined the concept of flourishing by defining it as living within an optimal range of human functioning characterized by goodness, generativity, growth, and resilience. His work emphasizes the multidimensional integration of hedonic and eudaimonic well-being. Crucially, this approach reframes mental health as the presence of positive attributes, contrasting flourishing not only with pathology but also with “languishing,” a state of psychological stagnation and emptiness.
Modern perspectives highlight tensions in the well-being discourse, such as the hedonic/eudaimonic and subjective/objective dichotomies. While Aristotle tied flourishing to moral virtue and external conditions, others, such as Keyes, emphasize subjective and psychological functioning. Scholars like Csikszentmihalyi (1991) and Seligman (2002/2004, 2011) acknowledge Aristotle’s insight that external factors like wealth and health only facilitate happiness if appraised positively through subjective evaluations.
This ongoing debate reflects a broader question: why do individuals fail to feel fulfilled despite having external markers of success? Understanding flourishing as a holistic and dynamic interplay between personal virtues, subjective states, and societal conditions provides a framework for addressing this puzzle and advancing individual and collective well-being.
Addressing this complex subject requires an integrated perspective that considers the entirety of the human person, allowing for a thorough exploration of fundamental questions related to the meaning of life, human relationships, and well-being.
The Human Flourishing Project at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome, starting in 2013, has become a significant forum for interdisciplinary initiatives. The project aims to foster a balanced and holistic study of various aspects of human activity that are intimately tied to a deeper sense of happiness and fulfillment. Drawing inspiration from the Aristotelian tradition, the project supports diverse research efforts globally, promoting collaborative networks, overseeing doctoral research, and engaging in academic teaching to advance the discourse on human flourishing.
An attached list of publications, events, and teaching activities is not exhaustive but highlights the most relevant and significant contributions. See Appendix 1. Main partner institutions and projects
1. Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues
2. Human Flourishing Program, University Campus Biomedico, Rome, Italy, https://www.unicampus.it/human-flourishing-pilot-program/
3. European Character and Virtue Association (ECVA), University of Birmingham, University Francisco de Vitoria (Madrid), European University of Rome (Rome)
4. University LUMSA, Italy, School of Psychology, Caterina Fiorilli, Giacomo Angelini
5. University Roma Tre, Italy, Department of Philosophy, Mario De Caro, Sofia Bonicalzi
6. Educarácter, Universidad Panamericana Guadalajara, Mexico, https://educaracter.com/proyecto-en/
7. University Abat Oliba-CEU, School of Psychology, Martín Echavarría, Paloma Alonso-Stuyck, Dolores Barroso
8. GIECC Grupo de Investigación Educación, Ciudadanía y Carácter, University of Navarre (Spain), School of Education and Psychology, Aurora Bernal, Concepción Naval, https://www.unav.edu/web/educacion-ciudadania-y-caracter
9. Interpersonal Relationships, Emotions and Human Flourishing (IREH), University Villanueva (Madrid, Spain), Consuelo Martínez Priego, https://www.villanueva.edu/grupos-investigacion/#
10. University of Miami, USA, School of Education and Human Development, Blaine Fowers
11. Aretai Center on Virtues, University of Genoa, University Roma Tre (Rome), https://www.aretaicenter.com/
12. Associazione di psicologia cattolica (Italy)
https://www.psicologiacattolica.it/ Conference Overview: Aims and Objectives
As a key component of the Human Flourishing Project, the upcoming “Emotions and Flourishing: From Magda Arnold’s Proposal to Contemporary Psychological and Philosophical Perspectives” international conference will serve as both a scientific symposium and a platform to strengthen a dynamic network of scholars. The main objective of the conference is to bridge the gap between different approaches to the study of emotions and human cognition, through a high-quality academic event that encourages interdisciplinary dialogue. By fostering discussions across psychology, philosophy, and related fields, the conference aims to generate new insights into human flourishing, contributing to both theoretical advancements and practical applications. Focus on Magda Arnold's Legacy
The conference will feature an in-depth exploration of the contributions of Magda Blondiau Arnold (1903-2002), a pioneering figure in the study of emotions. Arnold’s groundbreaking work in appraisal theory, personality, memory, and neurophysiological research has had a lasting impact on both psychology and philosophy. Her approach, grounded in the cognitive and tendential dimensions of emotions, continues to influence contemporary scholarship and offers a profound framework for understanding the interplay between human cognition and affect.
The conference will examine Arnold’s legacy through a cross-disciplinary lens, aligning the fields of psychology and philosophy. Her intellectual heritage resonates with the tradition of classical thinkers like Aristotle and Aquinas, as well as modern scholars such as Scheler, Allport, and Frankl. This gathering seeks to revisit Arnold’s seminal ideas while synthesizing new developments, creating a fertile ground for knowledge convergence and innovation. Anticipated Programme and Speakers
The “Emotions and Flourishing” conference will take place at the Pontificia Università Santa Croce in Rome over a period of 3 days in February 2026. It will feature a programme designed to facilitate a rich academic exchange.
The thematic areas of the conference will cover the following topics:
1. Contemporary Conceptions of Emotions.
This will engage with evolving theories of emotions within modern psychology and philosophy. It will explore how the understanding of emotions has evolved in both contemporary philosophy and psychology, while tracing its roots back to Arnold’s foundational theories. Key questions to be addressed include:
How have contemporary notions of emotions, particularly in relation to human flourishing, shifted in recent years?
In what ways does Arnold’s cognitive appraisal theory still resonate in contemporary emotional psychology?
What are the key differences in how emotions are conceptualised in philosophy versus psychology?
2. Positive Emotions: Revisiting Arnold’s conceptualization of positive emotions and assessing its relevance in current research.
Building on Arnold’s early work on the nature and role of positive emotions, this theme will critically analyse their place in modern research on well-being and human flourishing.
Scholars will be encouraged to consider the following:
· How do positive emotions, such as joy, wonder, and gratitude, contribute to a meaningful and flourishing life?
· What new theoretical frameworks are emerging to better understand the impact of positive emotions on psychological resilience and personal growth?
· How do positive emotions interact with character virtues to enhance human flourishing?
3. Dialogue with Modern Appraisal Theory: Examining the relationship between Arnold’s theories and contemporary appraisal models in emotional psychology.
This theme will examine the points of convergence and divergence between contemporary appraisal theory and Arnold’s original contributions to emotional psychology. Specific questions include the following:
· How do modern appraisal theories expand upon or challenge Arnold’s views on emotional processes and cognitive evaluation?
· What insights can be gained from integrating appraisal theory with Arnold’s foundational concepts, particularly in the context of human flourishing?
· How do appraisal theories intersect with philosophical ideas of value, meaning, and well-being?
4. Role of Emotions in Human Flourishing: Analyzing how emotions contribute to aspects of well-being, life satisfaction, and eudaimonic growth.
This theme will delve into the multifaceted role of emotions in fostering human flourishing. Scholars will examine how emotions contribute to life evaluation, satisfaction, and the broader spectrum of eudaimonic well-being. Key questions to be explored include:
· In what ways do emotions influence key dimensions of human flourishing, such as purpose, meaning, and self-realisation?
· How can emotions be regulated or cultivated to promote long-term well-being and personal development?
· How do different philosophical and psychological models of flourishing account for the role of emotions in achieving a fulfilling life?
5. Human Perfection and Self-Realisation
· Does convergence exist when delving into topics related to human perfection, self-realisation, and Arnold's seminal thesis on the self-ideal? Confirmed keynote speakers to date include
– Barbara Fredrickson (Positive Psychology)
– Randolph Cornelius (Emotional Theory)
– Michael Brady (Philosophy of Emotions)
– Roberta De Monticelli (Phenomenology)
– Antonio Malo (Philosophical Anthropology)
– Kristján Kristjánsson (Character Education)
– Blaine Fowers (Virtue Ethics and Human Flourishing)
The conference will be attended by researchers in the field of Philosophy (Moral Philosophy and Anthropology), Psychology, Education, as well as some psychotherapists.

Conference Main Goals
Critical Questions and Methodologies
A primary goal of the conference is to bridge the gap between different approaches to studying emotions and human flourishing, particularly in the disciplines of psychology and philosophy. To facilitate this dialogue, the conference will host several discussion panels and roundtables, where scholars from diverse backgrounds can engage in open debate and exchange of ideas. These panels will be guided by a series of core questions designed to challenge existing assumptions and promote new ways of thinking about the relationship between emotions, virtues, and well-being.
To advance such interdisciplinary dialogue between psychology and philosophy, the conference will address the following critical questions:
1. Common Understanding of Key Concepts
To what extent do philosophers and psychologists share a common understanding of pivotal concepts such as “convenience,” “value,” “good,” “meaning,” and “meaningful life”? Methodology: Comparative analysis of philosophical and psychological definitions, followed by roundtable discussions to identify common ground and divergent views.
2. Bridging Disciplines
How can a harmonious discourse be achieved, bridging the lexicon of psychological attitudes with the philosophical constructs of virtues, happiness, and well-being? Methodology: Interdisciplinary panels where experts from both fields engage in structured dialogue, supported by audience Q&A to promote collective insights.
3. Cross-Disciplinary Insights
What opportunities and insights can be gleaned through cross-disciplinary engagement between scholars in psychology and philosophy? Methodology
Scholarly papers presented in dedicated sessions, with each paper evaluated for its contribution to a unified understanding of human perfection across disciplines.
A closing plenary session where the most significant cross-disciplinary insights from the conference will be synthesised and discussed, with a focus on identifying future collaborative research opportunities.
The conference activities will include keynote addresses, parallel sessions, and symposia for the presentation of research papers and projects, as follows:
Keynote Addresses: The conference will feature seven keynote speeches delivered by leading scholars in psychology and philosophy from around the world. These keynote talks will cover both theoretical and empirical aspects of the study of emotions, human flourishing, and interdisciplinary research. Each keynote will aim to address critical questions at the intersection of these fields, offering cutting-edge insights and setting the stage for deeper discussions throughout the conference.
Paper Presentations: We expect around 100 paper presentations organised into four parallel sessions, ensuring a broad and diverse range of perspectives are shared. Each presentation will focus on the key themes of the conference, with the goal of advancing the discussion on how emotions influence human flourishing, self-determination, and agency. The parallel sessions will encourage in-depth discussions and feedback, helping participants refine their ideas and contribute to the development of new insights in their respective fields.
Symposia: The conference will include three thematic symposia, each focusing on a particular subject within the broader study of emotions and human flourishing. The symposia will bring together experts from multiple disciplines to address specific questions, providing a structured forum for more targeted and collaborative exploration. These symposia will allow for a deeper investigation into particular topics, such as the role of positive emotions in well-being, and the relationship between emotional regulation and character development. Requested Funding and Utilization
We are seeking funding of $9,200 from the TWCF to cover 15% of the Project Director and Co-Director time, and six months time of an Administrative Assistant. Also to cover the coffee break catering costs for the event itself (anticipated attendance circa 270 participants).
The Pontifical University of the Holy Cross will be providing $21,614 in additional funding to cover the remaining essential costs associated with hosting the conference, including:
– Rental of the main auditorium (capacity of 270 participants)
– Technical staff and support for the venue
– Additional rooms for parallel sessions and symposia
– Professional photography and video services
– Social media content creation and dissemination

This financial support will ensure that the event can be organized to a high standard, providing a conducive environment for the exchange of ideas and the establishment of collaborative networks. Next Steps and Impact
The conference will be a critical milestone for the Human Flourishing Project at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross. It aims to serve as a catalyst for deepening dialogue between clinical psychologists, philosophers, and scholars across these disciplines. By facilitating this interdisciplinary exchange, we aim to refine existing theoretical frameworks and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of emotions as a fundamental component of human flourishing.
Furthermore, the conference will be interconnected with ongoing initiatives, acting as a forum to enhance translation and mutual understanding between philosophy and psychology. We anticipate that the outcomes will directly benefit affiliated research groups and academic institutions, such as the Aretai Centre for Character and Virtues (University of Genoa), the Human Flourishing Program (Campus Biomedico University, Rome), and the Italian Catholic Psychological Association, among others. By widening their audience and disseminating innovative research, this conference will strengthen their impact. Outputs
The conference will generate several tangible outputs. First, we will publish two volumes with an international academic publisher. The first volume will include keynote speeches and invited papers, while the second will feature a selection of the best peer-reviewed submissions from the conference. To ensure academic rigour, all papers will undergo a double-blind peer review process, with a target publication date of summer 2026.
In addition to these publications, the conference’s findings will be integrated into the University’s teaching curriculum and PhD strategy. A dedicated webpage will provide full conference details, and we will record and edit videos of key sessions, conduct interviews with prominent speakers, and publish abstracts of all presentations to ensure wide dissemination.
Moreover, we are establishing a forum to promote ongoing interdisciplinary dialogue between philosophy and psychology, facilitating continued collaboration after the event. This forum, along with the conference itself, will strengthen our partnerships with philosophical and psychological associations, broadening their reach and impact across academic communities.
All outputs, including publications, videos, and interviews, will be shared through academic networks, institutional websites, and media channels, maximizing their global visibility and engagement. Outcomes
The conference will serve as a significant catalyst for multiple stakeholders, creating both immediate and longer-term outcomes. In the short term, we expect the event to bridge gaps between disciplines, fostering mutual understanding between psychology, philosophy, and Christian anthropology. For pontifical universities, the conference will deepen engagement with psychological methodologies and language, enhancing their research capacity in fields related to human flourishing. Simultaneously, secular researchers and practitioners will gain fresh insights into the Christian anthropological perspective, allowing them to assess its relevance and compatibility with scientific approaches to human flourishing.
One of the primary longer-term outcomes will be the establishment of a clear framework for distinguishing various interpretations of spirituality within theories of flourishing. This clarity will benefit both academic and practical applications of these theories, providing a valuable benchmark for future research. This outcome aligns with our broader collaboration with the School of Theology at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, where the conference will contribute to advancing the dialogue between theology and psychology.
Moreover, the conference will act as a critical driver for the Human Flourishing Project, energising its ongoing initiatives. The interdisciplinary dialogue and collaborative networks established during the event will create a foundation for future research, teaching, and public engagement. We anticipate that the relationships and knowledge generated will result in sustained interdisciplinary collaboration, furthering the integration of philosophical, psychological, and theological perspectives on human flourishing in both academic and public discourse. Project Team
Organizing Committee: Pía Valenzuela, Juan A. Mercado (Pontifical University of the Holy Cross).
Administrative coordinator: Caroline Jourdanne.
Scientific Board:
Pía Valenzuela, Juan A. Mercado, Antonio Malo, Wenceslao Vial, Francisco Insa (Pontifical University of the Holy Cross).
Blaine Fowers (University of Miami)
Kristján Kristjánsson (University of Birmingham)
Concepción Naval and Aurora Bernal (University of Navarre)
Claudia Navarini (European University of Rome)
Ruth de Jesús (Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid)
Fátima Ruiz Fuster (University of La Rioja)
Daniela Salgado (Universidad Panamericana Guadalajara, Mexico)
Verónica Fernández (Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid)
Joaquín García Alandete (University of Valencia)
Elissa Rodkey (Crandall University, Canada)
Martín Echavarría (University Abat Oliba, Barcelona)
Stephanie Shields (Pennsylvania State University)
Randolph Cornelius (Vassar College, USA) Project Duration
The project duration will be 6 months.
We have been actively working on the conference as part of the Human Flourishing Project since October 2023. During this initial phase, our efforts have focused on laying the groundwork, including developing the conference themes, building partnerships with key academic institutions, and inviting prominent scholars. This preparatory work has ensured a strong foundation for the event.
From December 2025 to May 2026, we will enter an intensive phase of activity, finalising all logistical and academic details for the conference. This period will involve coordinating with speakers, managing the peer review process for paper submissions, and organising the conference program. Additionally, we will be focusing on enhancing our outreach and promotion strategies to ensure broad participation and engagement from the academic community and beyond. Conclusion
In conclusion, the “Emotions and Flourishing” conference is poised to make a significant contribution to the fields of psychology and philosophy. By fostering a collaborative academic environment, the event aims to generate novel insights, strengthen interdisciplinary networks, and enhance our understanding of the essential role of emotions in human well-being. We respectfully request your support in making this transformative gathering possible.