The Danish concept of hygge is quickly becoming the newest wellness trend. It comes as no surprise though as Denmark consistently ranks as the happiest country in the world. Hygge- often translated as cosiness- encompasses the feelings of being safe, loved, warm, calm, and home. With nine books, ranging from a cookbook to a parenting guide, being published this year, it seems everyone will have their own piece of Danishness.

In this DeCal we shall primarily take a socio-cultural approach to understanding happiness within the context of Denmark. However, the fields of psychology, economics, and political science are increasingly incorporating happiness into their disciplines. Positive psychology and happiness economics are two prime examples. Thus, we shall use the various popular press books, reports by the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, and two hands-on activities as avenues for discussion about happiness.

Objectives: Why (or why not) is Denmark considered the Happiness country in the world?
By participating in this DeCal, you will become familiar with (1) Danish happiness along with (2) the overarching socio-cultural aspects that play a role in influencing happiness. And in answering the above question, you will also have a better understanding of (3) the dimensions of happiness, (4) evaluating happiness, (5) its rising position on the global agenda.

THIS COURSE AND WAITLIST IS CURRENTLY FULL. PLEASE DO NOT EMAIL THE FACILITATOR REGARDING ENROLLMENT. Enrollment is on a first-come, first served basis. To enroll in the course please email the course facilitator at mnakada@berkeley.edu. After the facilitator confirms your spot in the course or wait-list, show up to the first day of class, January 23rd, so that he can record your Student ID number and submit it to his advisor. Enrollment is limited to 12 students with 3 students on the wait-list. *Unfortunately, since this is an upper-division course, the enrollment system will not let me enroll lower-division students.