Abstract
In this chapter we discuss the meanings and experiences of happiness and wellbeing among Inuit in Nunavut, Arctic Canada. Similar to many other indigenous peoples, happiness is centered on the family and deep participation in the social world, part of an interdependence of identity and mutuality of being. Inuit wellbeing is also located in traditional values and practices such as camping on the land, hunting, sewing skin clothing, and being with elders. Inuit are in the process of reclaiming postcolonial control over their lives, both politically and through community empowerment, and are also living fully in the modern world. Maintaining a strong sense of belongingness is thus important for Inuit wellness, and Inuit are working to increase this sense at many levels.
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Kral, M.J., Idlout, L. (2012). It’s All in the Family: Wellbeing Among Inuit in Arctic Canada. In: Selin, H., Davey, G. (eds) Happiness Across Cultures. Science Across Cultures: the History of Non-Western Science, vol 6. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-2700-7_26
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