HEDONISM Meaning and
Definition
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Hedonism is a philosophical concept that encompasses a lifestyle or doctrine advocating the pursuit of pleasure and personal gratification as the highest goals and ultimate purpose in life. It is derived from the ancient Greek word "hēdonē" which means pleasure. According to hedonism, the ultimate measure of what is good or valuable lies in an individual's capacity to experience pleasure and avoid pain.
This concept suggests that individuals should prioritize self-indulgence, delight, and sensual gratification when making choices in their lives. Hedonism emphasizes the pursuit of immediate physical or emotional gratification rather than focusing on long-term consequences or moral considerations. Pleasure can take various forms, such as the enjoyment of art, music, food, physical sensations, or affectionate relationships.
However, hedonism does not necessarily advocate for reckless or self-destructive behavior. It suggests that individuals should seek a balance between different types of pleasures, avoiding excessive or harmful indulgence that might compromise long-term well-being. Critics of hedonism argue that it promotes selfishness, lacks a moral foundation, and undermines virtues such as self-discipline and altruism.
Ultimately, hedonism asserts that living a pleasurable and enjoyable life is the fundamental objective of existence, giving individuals the freedom to explore and pursue their desires so long as it does not infringe upon the rights or well-being of others.
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The pursuit of pleasure as an end in itself, without regard to moral or ethical considerations.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Etymology of HEDONISM
The word "hedonism" is derived from the Greek word "hēdonē", which means pleasure or delight. The term was further developed and introduced into philosophical discourse by the Greek philosopher Epicurus, who founded the philosophy known as Epicureanism. Epicurus promoted the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain as the ultimate goal of human life, and his teachings formed the basis of hedonism as a philosophical concept. The term "hedonism" itself was coined in English during the 19th century to describe this philosophical doctrine that emphasizes the pursuit of pleasure as the primary aim in life.
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