Scribner Seminar, London FYE 2023

The Good Life in London

Mark Rye, 
Professor of Psychology   

What does it mean to lead a good life? How can people thrive in the midst of difficult circumstances? London provides an ideal setting to explore these questions. Drawing upon insights from psychology, philosophy, religion, literature, and performing arts, we will examine human virtues and strengths that enable people to flourish. While investigating happiness, we will participate in events sponsored by London’s Museum of Happiness. Attending theatrical and musical performances in London will prompt us to consider how creative expression contributes to well-being. Examining scientific findings about meditation will be paired with instruction in various meditation approaches. Reading a novel set in England during World War II and interacting with the Forgiveness Project of London will challenge us to consider forgiveness as a possible response to wrongdoing. We will contemplate the benefits of gratitude and share our insights with students at a London primary school. For each topic, we will reflect on how interdisciplinary perspectives and our experiences in London can be applied to enhance our own lives. 

Mark Rye is a Professor of Psychology at Skidmore College and a licensed clinical psychologist. He is the Director of the Positive Psychology Laboratory and conducts research on how forgiveness and gratitude relate to mental health. When he’s not teaching or doing research, Mark loves spending time in the great outdoors hiking, skiing, and fly fishing.