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Is hedonism a valid pursuit of happiness or does it undermine long-term wellbeing?

Clella Raffels

Hedonism, the pursuit of pleasure and enjoyment, has been a controversial topic throughout history. Some argue that a life of pleasure-seeking is the ultimate form of happiness, while others contend that it can lead to negative consequences in the long run. In my view, the pursuit of hedonism can be a valid way to find happiness, but it should be approached with caution and a consideration of long-term wellbeing.

On the one hand, hedonism can be seen as a valid pursuit of happiness because it allows individuals to focus on their immediate well-being. Engaging in pleasurable activities, whether it's indulging in delicious food or enjoying a fun night out with friends, can boost our mood and overall satisfaction with life. Seeking out pleasure can also push us to explore new experiences and try new things, which can bring a sense of excitement and fulfillment to our lives. This pursuit of pleasure can be seen as a natural human desire, and denying oneself of it may lead to a sense of unhappiness or feeling unfulfilled.

However, the pursuit of hedonism can also have negative consequences in the long term. Focusing too much on immediate gratification can lead individuals to make choices that undermine their long-term wellbeing. For example, indulging in excessive alcohol or drug use may bring temporary pleasure, but it can ultimately lead to addiction and other negative consequences. Similarly, overspending to indulge in luxuries may bring pleasure in the moment, but it can lead to financial difficulties and stress down the line. In these cases, the pursuit of hedonism can undermine our long-term wellbeing and overall happiness.

In conclusion, I believe that the pursuit of hedonism can be a valid way to find happiness, but it should be approached with caution and consideration for long-term wellbeing. Seeking out pleasure and enjoyment can bring a sense of fulfillment and excitement to our lives, but we should be mindful of our choices and ensure that they don't have negative consequences in the long run. It's important to find a balance between immediate gratification and long-term wellbeing, as both are important components of a happy and fulfilling life.