Hedonism

Hedonism, philosophical doctrine that regards pleasure as the ultimate good. The view of the Cyrenaics and Aristippus (c.435–360 B.C.) was that the sentient pleasure of the moment was the only good, whereas Epicurus thought one's aim should be a life of lasting pleasure best attained by the guidance of reason. In the 19th century, utilitarianism, seeking “the greatest good of the greatest number,” was a revival of hedonism. Hedonism has often been attacked, for instance by 18th-century English theologian Joseph Butler, who saw pleasure as a bonus when a desire is fulfilled, rather than as an end in itself.

See also: Philosophy.