Human Perfection: A Comparative Analysis of Fārābī’s Theory of Happiness and Abraham Maslow’s Self Actualization

The understanding of humans in any philosophical school influences their ultimate purpose, affecting their way of life and how they resolve conflicts. Building on the foundation of humanistic psychology, Maslow posits the theory of self-actualization, asserting that transcending basic needs related to deficiency allows for the full manifestation of innate talents to their highest potential. Fārābī, a philosopher of happiness with a special focus on the functions of the mind, thought, and aptitudes, links human perfection in material life to perfection in the afterlife, offering a comprehensive theory on perfection and happiness within the realm of the mind through the flourishing of innate talents governed by the bestowing of intellects. Despite their different worldviews, both thinkers ultimately regard human perfection and happiness as aligned with the blossoming and utilization of innate talents. This perspective redefines primary human experiences, such as suffering and transient pleasure, replacing them with satisfaction and happiness. This paper presents an analytical-comparative study of these two philosophers’ views on the definitions of perfection and happiness. It addresses how humans resolve worldly conflicts and problems and examines their solutions within physical, relational, emotional, intellectual, and meaningful perfection.