Should We Maximize Pleasure and Avoid Pain? Rethinking Hedonism in a Deeper Light
The pursuit of pleasure is as old as humanity itself. From ancient Greek philosophers to modern lifestyle influencers, the idea that happiness comes from maximizing pleasure and avoiding pain has shaped how we live, work, and dream. In a world obsessed with comfort and convenience, the word hedonism often conjures up images of indulgence, luxury, and the pursuit of unending pleasure. It’s become shorthand for living a life free of discomfort — a kind of escape from struggle, challenge, and anything remotely unpleasant. But that definition misses the deeper truth of what hedonism can be. At its core, hedonism is about maximizing pleasure and minimizing suffering. But what if the road to deep, lasting pleasure actually winds through the valley of pain? But is this really the right goal? Should we maximize pleasure and avoid pain? Th e answer is more complicated than a simple yes or no. The Classic View of Hedonism At its most basic, hedonism is the philosophy that pleasure is the highest...