The Dangers of Hedonism: A Pathway to Unhappiness
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Understanding Hedonism
Let’s dive into the definition of hedonism:
Hedonism is a philosophical perspective that regards pleasure or happiness as the highest good and the ultimate goal of human existence. It suggests that actions are deemed morally acceptable if they foster pleasure and reduce pain, indicating that the quest for pleasure is the primary aim of human behavior.
This concept seems familiar, doesn't it? It reflects the culture prevalent in the Western world. Once basic needs are satisfied, individuals are free to seek what brings them joy. But what’s the downside? The problem arises when pleasure becomes the singular focus of life. In our relentless pursuit of happiness, we risk becoming self-centered, superficial, and ultimately... unfulfilled.
John Stuart Mill once remarked, "Those only are happy who have their minds fixed on some object other than their own happiness; on the happiness of others, on the improvement of mankind, even on some art or pursuit, followed not as a means, but as itself an ideal end. Aiming thus at something else, they find happiness by the way."
As we grow increasingly unhappy, the chase for pleasure intensifies—a downward spiral.
The Consequences of a Hedonistic Society
Our societal structures and economies are built upon these hedonistic principles, creating a perilous feedback loop. We are conditioned to believe that, after dedicating countless hours to our jobs, we deserve more than mere survival—we deserve happiness, often equated with consumption, as promoted by advertising.
Society has morphed into an echo chamber, perpetuating the illusion that each individual is the protagonist of their own story, deserving of everything—immediately. In reality, the narrative we collectively inhabit is far more expansive, and we are much less significant than we tend to believe.
Today’s levels of joy and pleasure are astonishing compared to the majority of human history. Our modern indulgences overwhelm our dopamine systems, leading to widespread societal issues such as:
- Addiction
- Anxiety disorders
- Attention deficit disorders
- Burnout
- Depression
- Decreased well-being
- Impulse control issues
- Social isolation
It wouldn’t be surprising if many readers relate to at least one of these challenges.
Western society has become akin to a theme park, offering distractions like:
- Alcohol
- Binge eating
- Caffeine overuse
- Casual sex
- Compulsive shopping
- Drug abuse
- Excessive partying
- Fast food
- Gambling
- Gaming (Loot boxes)
- Junk food
- Nicotine
- Pornography
- Social media
- Streaming binges
- Sugar overconsumption
- Unregulated internet use
- Virtual reality
- Workaholism
- Zero-responsibility tourism
We chase these activities in hopes of happiness, and when happiness eludes us, we settle for numbness.
Ironically, the pleasures we now seek were not created by "happy" individuals, but rather by resilient people who discovered happiness through hard work and determination.
The cycle can be summarized as follows:
- Tough times create strong individuals.
- Strong individuals create good times.
- Good times create weak individuals.
- Weak individuals create tough times.
It's easy to observe where we currently stand in this cycle.
The Bigger Picture
A hedonistic society is vulnerable to exploitation. But who would exploit it, and for what purpose? The answer: tyrants seeking ultimate control.
Reading Aldous Huxley's Brave New World—which parallels contemporary society—alongside George Orwell's 1984 reveals contrasting fears. Orwell anticipated a future dominated by coercion, while Huxley feared a world governed by distraction and manipulation. A hedonistic society, weakened by mental health issues and distractions, becomes an easy target for an Orwellian tyrant enforcing control.
The past few years have presented a unique opportunity to reflect on these concepts.
Seeking Alternatives
The rise of self-help culture, renewed interest in religion and spirituality, and influential leaders is not a coincidence. Many recognize that our current state is unsustainable, yearning for purpose—something greater than oneself. We sacrifice family connections for fleeting pleasures on the hedonistic altar of self-gratification, dedicating our time to work merely to fund further hedonistic pursuits, while our remaining moments are consumed by mindless distractions.
However, this situation also presents a ripe opportunity for significant change. A look back at past societies illustrates a clear truth: a society longs for what it lacks. This yearning manifests in music, fashion, architecture, and other cultural elements, reflecting the natural ebb and flow of human experience.
To foster a more fulfilling path toward genuine happiness, consider focusing on others rather than solely on yourself. Some suggestions include:
- Altruism
- Art creation
- Charity work
- Community service
- Environmental conservation
- Family time
- Gardening
- Gratitude journaling
- Learning new skills
- Meditation
- Minimalism
- Practices of moderation
- Nature walks
- Peer support groups
- Reading philosophy
- Spiritual practices
- Teaching or mentoring
- Volunteering
- Wellness activities (yoga, tai chi)
- Writing (poetry, stories)
Moderation is essential. Regaining control over our actions, media consumption, and thoughts is vital. Start with a conscious dopamine detox and allow yourself to experience boredom again—a powerful catalyst for creativity.
We still have the chance to change our trajectory, even if the initial withdrawal symptoms may be challenging.
Conclusion
True happiness and success are byproducts of a meaningful life, characterized by purpose and responsibility—alongside obstacles to overcome and hard work. Both happiness and success cannot be pursued directly; they arise as unintended consequences of dedicating oneself to a cause greater than oneself.
We must resist substituting the dopamine rush from overcoming challenges with mindless distractions or overindulgence. Our dopamine reward system is fundamentally designed to encourage us to confront challenges, similar to hunting for food amidst danger.
Let’s use it as intended, albeit without the need for mammoth hunting.
Happiness will find us when we allow it.
The first video, "Hedonism and Pleasure - Philosophy Tube," explores the philosophy of hedonism, examining how the pursuit of pleasure shapes our lives and societal norms.
The second video, "The Toxic Hedonism of Male Travel Vloggers," critiques the hedonistic tendencies displayed in travel vlogging, highlighting the negative impacts on both individuals and society.
I will leave you with three more quotes that resonate with me:
"Don't aim at success — the more you aim at it and make it a target, the more you are going to miss it. For success, like happiness, cannot be pursued; it must ensue, and it does so as the unintended side effect of one's personal dedication to a cause greater than oneself or as the by-product of one's surrender to a person other than oneself." — Jordan B. Peterson
"Happiness cannot be pursued; it must ensue. One must have a reason to 'be happy.' Once the reason is found, however, one becomes happy automatically." — Viktor E. Frankl
"I'm claiming the right to be unhappy." — Aldous Huxley, Brave New World
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope it offers you some valuable insights. If you appreciate my work, feel free to explore more. Take care, remain an excellent human being, and allow yourself the space to be bored and dream.