hedonism, in ethics, a general term for all theories of conduct in which the criterion is pleasure of one kind or another. The word is derived from the Greek hedone (“pleasure”), from hedys (“sweet” or “pleasant”). Hedonistic theories of conduct have been held from the earliest times.

What makes a person hedonistic?

A hedonistic person is committed to seeking sensual pleasure — the type of guy you might find in a massage parlor or at an all-you-can-eat buffet. ... That's why hedonistic folks revel in pleasure, and demand it in the present tense.

Where does the term hedonism come from?

The word 'hedonism' comes from the ancient Greek for 'pleasure'. Psychological or motivational hedonism claims that only pleasure or pain motivates us.