Final answer:
Hedonism is the philosophical notion that pleasure is the only intrinsic good. This concept has evolved from Epicurean philosophy to modern utilitarianism, emphasizing not only physical pleasure but also mental and emotional well-being as part of a fulfilling life. Critics argue it oversimplifies human well-being and ignores other important aspects of a good life.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is the Notion That Pleasure is the Only Good?
The notion that pleasure is the only good that exists in the world is known as hedonism. This philosophical approach suggests that pleasure, in its various forms, dictates what is inherently good, while pain suggests what is bad. Philosophical hedonism should not be confused with the everyday indulgence in bodily pleasures; it includes emotional and mental pleasure as well.
Hedonism has its roots in the ancient philosophy of Epicurus who taught that the most pleasurable life is one of moderation and rational desire. This type of pleasure is not merely sensory but also incorporates a state of well-being and tranquility, or ataraxia. Epicurus argued that long-lasting intellectual or emotional pleasures contribute more to a meaningful life than fleeting physical sensations. In contrast to Epicureanism, utilitarianism—a theory in normative moral theory—also falls under the umbrella of hedonism because it aims to maximize pleasure and minimize pain across society.
However, hedonism has faced criticism for being too subjective and for reducing well-being to mere pleasure. Critics argue that well-being comprises more than just the absence of pain or the presence of pleasure. There are other important factors like desire and objective goods that contribute to a person's overall welfare. Moreover, John Stuart Mill famously stated that higher, more complex forms of pleasure should be preferred over simpler ones, maintaining that "it is better to be a human being dissatisfied than a pig satisfied".