Hedonism: meaning, definitions and examples
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hedonism
[หhiหdษnษชz(ษ)m ]
Definitions
philosophy
The ethical theory that pleasure (in the sense of the satisfaction of desires) is the highest good and proper aim of human life.
Synonyms
pleasure-seeking philosophy, pursuit of pleasure.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hedonism |
Often used in a philosophical or intellectual context to refer to a belief or way of life that prioritizes pleasure as the highest good. Can sometimes have a negative connotation when implying excess or lack of moral restraint.
|
| pleasure-seeking philosophy |
Describes a belief system or viewpoint that prioritizes the pursuit of pleasure. This term is more explanatory and might be used in discussions to clarify the concept of hedonism.
|
| pursuit of pleasure |
A broad term that can refer to any activity or lifestyle aimed at achieving joy and satisfaction. It is less specific than 'hedonism' and can be used in both casual and formal contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- Hedonism is often criticized for promoting self-indulgence without considering the consequences.
- Some people believe that hedonism leads to a shallow and unfulfilling life.
everyday life
The doctrine that pleasure or happiness is the sole or chief good in life.
Synonyms
enjoyment-focused ideology, pleasure-seeking lifestyle.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hedonism |
This term is often used in a philosophical, ethical, or critical context to describe a belief system where the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain are the highest goals. It can have a negative connotation if it's perceived as selfish or excessive.
|
| pleasure-seeking lifestyle |
Typically used in everyday conversation to describe a way of living where seeking immediate pleasure is the primary goal. It can carry a neutral or slightly negative connotation, depending on the context.
|
| enjoyment-focused ideology |
This phrase is less common but can be used in academic or philosophical discussions to describe a system or set of beliefs that prioritizes enjoyment and satisfaction. It sounds more formal and neutral compared to 'hedonism'.
|
Examples of usage
- The party was a perfect example of hedonism, with guests enjoying food, drinks, and music.
- Some individuals practice hedonism by seeking out experiences that bring them immediate gratification.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term originates from the Greek word 'hedone', which means 'pleasure'.
- Hedonism has been a subject of philosophical discussion since ancient times, particularly among the Greeks.
- It became widely discussed in the 4th century BCE by philosophers like Aristippus, who taught that pleasure is the highest good.
Philosophy
- Hedonism is often divided into two categories: ethical hedonism, which suggests that pleasure is the moral goal of life, and psychological hedonism, which claims people naturally seek pleasure.
- Different schools of thought, such as utilitarianism, incorporate hedonistic principles by promoting actions that lead to the greatest happiness for the majority.
- Notable philosophers like Epicurus advocated for a measured approach to pleasure, emphasizing long-term happiness over immediate gratification.
Pop Culture
- Hedonism is frequently depicted in literature and media, often portraying characters who indulge in pleasure-seeking lifestyles.
- Movies like 'The Great Gatsby' capture themes of hedonism, showing the pursuit of pleasure in the context of wealth and excess.
- The club culture of the late 20th century celebrated hedonistic ideals, emphasizing nightlife and personal pleasure through music, dancing, and socializing.
Psychology
- Modern psychology examines how pleasure and reward can influence behavior, connecting hedonism to motivation theories.
- Studies show that while hedonistic pursuits can lead to initial happiness, they might not contribute to long-term satisfaction without balance.
- The 'hedonic treadmill' theory suggests people quickly return to a baseline level of happiness after achieving pleasurable experiences.
Critiques
- Critics argue that hedonism can lead to selfishness or moral dilemmas when personal pleasure conflicts with ethical responsibilities.
- Philosophers like Immanuel Kant challenged hedonism by arguing that moral actions should not be based on pleasure but on duty or principle.
- The consequences of hedonistic lifestyles have been linked to issues such as addiction, emphasizing the need for moderation.
Translations
Translations of the word "hedonism" in other languages:
๐ต๐น hedonismo
๐ฎ๐ณ เคธเฅเคเคตเคพเคฆ
๐ฉ๐ช Hedonismus
๐ฎ๐ฉ hedonisme
๐บ๐ฆ ะณะตะดะพะฝัะทะผ
๐ต๐ฑ hedonizm
๐ฏ๐ต ๅฟซๆฅฝไธป็พฉ (ใใใใใใ ใ)
๐ซ๐ท hรฉdonisme
๐ช๐ธ hedonismo
๐น๐ท hedonizm
๐ฐ๐ท ์พ๋ฝ์ฃผ์ (์พ๋ฝ์ฃผ์)
๐ธ๐ฆ ุงููุฐุฉ
๐จ๐ฟ hedonismus
๐ธ๐ฐ hedonizmus
๐จ๐ณ ไบซไนไธปไน (xiวnglรจ zhวyรฌ)
๐ธ๐ฎ hedonizem
๐ฎ๐ธ nautnahyggja
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะณะตะดะพะฝะธะทะผ
๐ฌ๐ช แฐแแแแแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ hedonizm
๐ฒ๐ฝ hedonismo