What are Intrinsic and Extrinsic Goods?

In the video on “Happiness and Its causes” by Ehon Chan, he talks about how he overcame a depressing situation and how he appreciates the simplicity of life. 

Yes, It is important to find super ways to achieve happiness. but how can man live a fulfilled life? There are many theories on this which different people have written their views, but if we stop to give some thought to this, we would easily realize that it is not enough to do what we feel like doing (what we feel makes us happy), neither is it enough to plan our lives with some thought for the future and the long-term effects of their actions. Yes these things are good, are worth having or doing, and although most depend on each person’s preferences, opportunities, and circumstances., they may bring us happiness in the future, but it is not enough.

Fiona Robards says we let happiness pass us by, we need to rethink our lifestyles, and there are so many ways to enjoy our time that does not involve spending money. We can increase our resilience and bounce back from tough times. We can learn to focus our mind through meditation – mindfulness. 

When it comes to happiness, we have the Freedom and personal freedom to choose. Yes, every choice has its consequences but choosing that which brings you fulfillment should be paramount.

And in all things that bring us happiness, there must be human dignity.

Human dignity is not simply a set of guidelines on human worth, or a statement of what a human is, it is a bridge to other faith traditions and secular efforts for making moral decisions. And, it is a commitment to preserve, defend and advocate for equality and flourishing of all human beings.

Dignity has a fourfold meaning in the catholic tradition, 

1. Affirmation of inherent human worth
2. A consequence of choices and circumstance
3. A moral measure
4. Shorthand for a range of Christian beliefs and attitudes about the human person

So now, how do we know what lifestyle to pursue that will give us ultimate fulfillment?

Knowing the difference between “extrinsic” and “intrinsic” goods—we use “good” here to identify anything at all that is gratifying and/or desirable—can be a helpful aid in guiding our thinking about how to orient ourselves to know what would offer us fulfillment.

Intrinsic goods: These are internal factors or things from within that make a man fulfilled (knowledge, beliefs/religion, interpersonal relationships” family”, life, spending time alone.)

– It means you can not see or touch

– You are not in competition with anything/anyone.

– It is like appreciating art.

Extrinsic goods: these are external factors that contribute to man’s fulfillment. (fame power, salary, etc.)

– These solve a problem but do not give true happiness. These are things that we can see and touch (tangible).

– Instead, these things drive competition.

 Humans are both distinct and complex. Our distinctiveness is reflected in what makes up our goods, whether extrinsic or intrinsic.

Extrinsic values cannot exist without Intrinsic values. Extrinsic value results in intrinsic value.

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