Redefining Wellness: A Holistic Approach to Human Flourishing

By Antonio Maturo and Francesca Setiffi, Wellness, Social Policy and Public Health: Bridging Human Flourishing with Equity offers a fresh perspective on the concept of wellness, moving beyond its common perception as a self-help buzzword or individual pursuit.

In today’s society, wellness is often viewed as a heterogeneous set of activities aimed at increasing both physical and mental individual well-being. This includes maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, being physically active, and taking care of mental health. However, this perspective ignores the significant role that social and economic factors play in shaping our ability to pursue wellness.

The Sociological Perspective: Uncovering the Flaws of Individualized Wellness

From a sociological standpoint, the pursuit of wellness raises problematic issues. The individualized approach to wellness neglects the importance of community empowerment, social capital, and social cohesion. Social determinants such as access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities significantly impact one’s ability to engage in wellness activities.

A New Ecosystem: Rethinking Wellness as a Collective Effort

The authors of Wellness, Social Policy and Public Health propose a paradigm shift, considering wellness as an ecosystem rather than an individualistic endeavor. Through case studies, they demonstrate that individual flourishing is directly linked to solid welfare infrastructures.

By bridging human flourishing with equity, this book offers a comprehensive understanding of wellness, highlighting the need for a more inclusive and socially conscious approach.

Book Details

• Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited
• Publication Date: November 16, 2022
• Language: English
• Hardcover: 96 pages
• ISBN-10: 1804550264
• ISBN-13: 978-1804550267