Final answer:
Hedonists differentiate between higher pleasures related to intellectual and social activities and lower pleasures from basic sensory experiences. They prioritize higher pleasures, aligning with philosophical teachings of Epicurus and utilitarianism for leading a more meaningful life.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hedonists distinguish between higher pleasures and lower pleasures. Higher pleasures are associated with the exercise of our higher cognitive faculties and participation in social and cultural life, such as the pleasure derived from engaging in philosophical discussions, learning new things, or experiencing artistic creativity. By contrast, lower pleasures are related to more basic, sensory experiences like the satisfaction from eating when hungry or the relaxation that comes after physical exertion.
Philosophical hedonism values intellectual and long-lasting pleasures over those that are momentary and fleeting. For Epicurus, the pursuit of a moderated and virtuous life, marked by tranquility and freedom from mental distress (ataraxia), was seen as the path to the most pleasurable existence.
Utilitarian philosophy, such as that proposed by Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, aligns with this distinction by seeking to maximize the overall well-being through actions that lead to the greater good for the greatest number of people.
Overall, hedonists claim that higher pleasures, which cater to human intellectual and social capabilities, are more important for a well-rounded and fulfilling life.