Hedonism vs Epicureanism: What’s the Difference?

The difference at a glance

Hedonism suggests that pleasure is the highest good and should be pursued without limits. Epicureanism advocates for the intelligent selection of pleasures to ensure long-term tranquility.

What does Hedonism mean?

noun · /ˈhiː.dən.ɪ.z(ə)m/

The ethical position that pleasure is the highest good and proper aim of human life — or more loosely, a lifestyle devoted to pleasure and self-indulgence.

Hedonism in a sentence

The Epicureans were accused of hedonism but actually advocated for modest pleasures and the absence of pain.

Hedonism, as a personal philosophy, often produces less pleasure than it promises — the pursuit of pleasure is not the same as experiencing it.

What does Epicureanism mean?

noun · /ˌɛpɪkjʊəˈriːənɪzəm/

The philosophical system of Epicurus, which held that the highest good is the pursuit of modest, sustainable pleasures (particularly friendship and philosophical discourse) combined with freedom from fear and bodily pain.

Epicureanism in a sentence

The epicureanism she'd arrived at in her forties was nothing like her earlier idea of it — quieter, more sustainable.

Genuine epicureanism recommends the pleasures available in any weather — friendship, good food, honest conversation.

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