SENSUALISM Meaning and
Definition
-
Sensualism is a philosophical and ethical theory that emphasizes the primacy of sensory experiences and sensations in shaping human knowledge and understanding of the world. It argues that all knowledge is derived from the senses and that sensory perceptions, rather than reason or intellect, are the foundation of human cognition. In this context, sensuality and sensory pleasures are seen as the main sources of knowledge and the driving forces behind human behavior and decision-making.
According to the principles of sensualism, our senses act as a direct conduit between us and the external world, allowing us to perceive and experience reality. This theory suggests that our sensory experiences are not passive receptacles but active processes that actively construct our understanding of the world around us. Sensualists propose that knowledge is primarily gained through sensations, such as touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing.
In ethics, sensualism argues that the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain are the ultimate goals of human existence. It posits that human actions are primarily driven by sensual desires and that individuals should seek to maximize their sensory pleasure without causing harm or infringing upon the pleasures of others.
Sensualism has been a subject of debate among philosophers throughout history. Some critics argue that this philosophy oversimplifies human cognition and neglects the role of reason and intellect in understanding the world. Others counter this by contending that reason is ultimately derived from sensory experiences, making it subordinate to the primacy of sensation.
Overall, sensualism is a philosophical framework that underscores the significance of sensory experiences in shaping knowledge, perception, and ethical understanding.
-
Sensuality; domination by the passions or appetites.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
-
A state of subjection to sensual feelings or appetites; in mental phil., the theory held by many that all our ideas, our mental acts, and our intellectual powers, are but mere modifications of former sensations, or originated in them; sensationalism; opposed to intellectualism.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SENSUALISM
- aensualism
- zensualism
- xensualism
- densualism
- eensualism
- wensualism
- swnsualism
- ssnsualism
- sdnsualism
- srnsualism
- s4nsualism
- s3nsualism
- sebsualism
- semsualism
- sejsualism
- sehsualism
- senaualism
- senzualism
- senxualism
Etymology of SENSUALISM
The word "sensualism" originates from the Latin term "sensus", which means "perception" or "feeling". In philosophy, the word "sensualism" refers to the theory that knowledge and moral judgments are ultimately derived from sensations, rather than reason or innate ideas. The term was first used in the 18th century and gained popularity during the Enlightenment era, particularly through the works of thinkers like John Locke and David Hume.
Similar spelling words for SENSUALISM
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
