Could playing with and discussing old computers and technology elicit a happiness response?
The sight of vintage gaming consoles, early computers, and retro gadgets often evokes a wave of nostalgia. These objects, once the pinnacle of innovation, now serve as bridges to the past, reconnecting us with perceived simpler times. But can engaging with old technology go beyond nostalgia to actively contribute to our happiness? Recent psychological insights suggest it can, and the reasons may lie in how we experience and define happiness itself.
Hedonic and Eudaemonic Happiness
Happiness, as psychologists often frame it, comes in two forms: hedonic and eudaemonic. Hedonic happiness is about the pursuit of pleasure; finding joy in the moment - a classic example being the satisfaction of mastering a vintage video game or the delight of hearing the familiar hum of an old computer booting up. It can be the thrill of tinkering with a Commodore 64 or the simple fun of playing Pong on an old Atari.
Eudaemonic happiness, by contrast, is rooted in meaning and self-realisation. The sense of fulfilment that comes from engaging in activities that challenge and grow us - such as restoring a vintage computer, understanding the history of early microprocessors, or sharing these experiences with others. As defined by study.com, eudaemonic happiness involves pursuing meaning to achieve long-term satisfaction.† The US. National Library of Medicine adds that it is about developing oneself, being autonomous, and realising one’s potential.‡
The Fourth Portal Experience
At the recent Fourth Portal Innovation Showcase 2024, these concepts of happiness were brought to life. Participants and visitors gathered to explore a range of retro technologies, from early gaming consoles to vintage computers, in an event designed not just for display but for interaction and discussion. Conversations flowed about the design challenges of the past, the innovative thinking that shaped early technology, and how those foundations influenced modern games and, in turn, the advancements of new systems, including AI.
The event was not merely about reliving the past; it was about creating connections. For some, the hedonic joy came from playing with old machines or watching demonstrations on early hardware. For others, it was the eudaemonic satisfaction of exchanging knowledge, learning new skills, or sharing memories sparked by the artefacts.
Social Connection and Shared Experiences
Research highlights that happiness is amplified in social settings, and this event underscored that point. Discussions about old computers became a gateway to larger conversations about how technology shapes our lives and communities. For some, it was a chance to teach others about the roots of modern gaming and computing. For others, it was an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and engage in thoughtful dialogue about how far technology has come and where it’s headed.
A Broader Perspective on Technology and Wellbeing
There is something inherently satisfying about taking chaotic, disordered elements - like the unpredictable glitches of an old game or the unresponsive keys of a vintage keyboard - and turning them into something functional and ordered. This mirrors what psychologist Julia Christensen describes as the human drive to “make order out of disorder,” a process that can foster a sense of calm and accomplishment.
Atari, Apple and 486 computers at the Innovation Showcase 2024 (Photos Jon Pigram, 2024)
The BBC article, "The retro hobby that can help boost your happiness (say scientists)," provides further insight into this phenomenon, highlighting the psychological and social benefits of engaging with retro hobbies, such as speedcubing - solving the Rubik's Cube at speed. These activities demonstrate how combining skill, focus, and social connection can foster a sense of flow and enhance overall wellbeing.†
In the fast-paced, technology-driven world of today, events like these remind us that engaging with the past isn’t just a nostalgic escape but a meaningful pursuit. Whether it’s the immediate pleasure of revisiting an old favourite or the deeper satisfaction of connecting with others and building something new from the old, retro technology has a unique capacity to contribute to both hedonic and eudaemonic happiness.
Danny and Sam reviewing their involvement in Innovation in Gaming event at the Innovation Showcase 2024
Looking Ahead
As we continue exploring the role of technology in our lives, events like the Fourth Portal Innovation Showcase serve as a valuable reminder: the tools and toys of yesterday still have much to offer. Not only do they connect us with our past, but they also inspire conversations and ideas that can shape the future - all while making us a little happier along the way.
John M
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More on the Innovation Showcase: https://www.fourthportal.com/gravesend-showcase-2024
Fourth Portal would like to extend special thanks to Mark Gladwell for organising this event as part of the Innovation Showcase.
The Innovation Showcase was funded by Gravesham Borough Council using funding from UK Government.
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† Study.com, Eudaeimonic vs. Hedonic Happiness | Overview & Differences, https://study.com/academy/lesson/comparing-hedonic-eudaimonic-views-of-happiness.html#:~:text=What%20is%20the%20difference%20between,to%20achieve%20happiness%20long%20term. ‡ National Library of Medicine, National Centre for Biotechnology Information, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4943521/#:~:text=The%20eudemonic%20approach%20departs%20from,autonomous%20and%20realizing%20one's%20potential. † BBC Article: "The retro hobby that can help boost your happiness (say scientists)" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwyg4lgezj2o
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