Quality of life is increasingly referred to in policy-making, but also in social discussions. However, there is still much ambiguity about the interpretation of that concept. Quality of life is not the same as economic prosperity or individual well-being; nor is it primarily a question of health. But there is no consensus on what it is. Conceptual and philosophical analysis can help us further develop the idea of quality of life and explore what is measurable, and how. Historical research can show how quality of life changed over the centuries, and to what extent the choice of interpretation of the concept determines the development of quality of life. A further interpretation of the concept of quality of life also allows better answers to ethical and political questions, such as to what extent social organisations and governments may consciously strive to increase the quality of life of citizens: when does the promotion of quality of life of workers, consumers, patients or citizens turn into undesirable forms of paternalism?
Connecting character
This question connects philosophy, history, medical sciences, sociology, politics, economics and cultural sciences. Fundamental scientific research into the meaning and interpretation of the concept of quality of life provides knowledge that can serve as a basis for social issues surrounding old age, illness and health, as well as migration issues, for example. In addition, contemporary society also needs an open eye to the cultural or diversity dimension of the concept. Finally, how we wish to deal with these social issues has implications for our economic position. The question has descriptive, normative and design aspects. Descriptive aspects relate to the meaning and history of the concept of quality of life. What role does this concept play in discourse, past and present? And what are the implications of cultural differences around its interpretation? Normative aspects concern the concept or definition of what quality of life is. Design aspects are in the usefulness for and use of a definition for the policy context, in innovative applications in the healthcare and labour context, and more generally in innovations to promote a qualitative and healthy life course.
