Final answer:
Jeremy Bentham labeled individuals seeking pleasure and avoiding pain as hedonists. Utilitarianism, associated with Bentham and Mill, is a hedonistic philosophy that deems actions moral if they promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number. This differs from the moderate pleasures prized by Epicureans and the self-control of Stoics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Jeremy Bentham labeled people who are motivated by the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain as hedonists. Utilitarianism is often considered a hedonistic philosophy because it is concerned with maximizing pleasure and minimizing pain. Utilitarians like Bentham and John Stuart Mill base moral theory on the greatest happiness principle, which holds that an action is moral if it leads to the greatest benefit for the greatest number of people. The philosophical term hedonism takes into account both emotional and mental pleasure and pain, prioritizing long-lasting pleasures that contribute to a meaningful life over fleeting and extravagant indulgences. Hedonism comprises two most fundamental emotions or states of being, where pleasure is good and pain is bad. Therefore, for hedonists, these serve as principles for determining well-being. The approach of Epicureans, founded by Epicurus, also advocated that pleasure is the highest good, although emphasizing moderation, virtue, and philosophy rather than pure indulgence. In contrast, Stoics believe in overcoming destructive emotions and developing self-control and fortitude as a means to maintaining virtuous character and achieving a state of contentment. Bentham's contribution to utilitarianism was significant, especially his principle of utility which bases the morality of an action on its outcomes, specifically on whether it promotes happiness.