What does "hedonism" focus on?

Hedonism is a philosophical doctrine that emphasizes the pursuit of pleasure as the highest good and primary goal of human life. This principle asserts that pleasure, in its various forms—physical, emotional, and intellectual—is what ultimately matters for a fulfilling existence. In the context of ethics, hedonism suggests that actions are right if they promote overall happiness and pleasure, and wrong if they produce pain or unhappiness.

The concept of hedonism can manifest in diverse ways, such as seeking sensory pleasures, emotional joys, or the enjoyment of intellectual engagement. By centering on pleasure as an ethical guide, hedonism contrasts with other philosophies that may prioritize spiritual fulfillment, self-sacrifice, or compassionate living. These alternatives focus on moral duties, altruism, or a higher purpose beyond just personal enjoyment, which distinctly diverges from hedonistic principles. Thus, the focus of hedonism is uniquely placed on the active pursuit and maximization of pleasure.