Hedonism is a sub philosophy of which broader framework?

Hedonism is a sub philosophy of which broader framework?

• A. Stoicism
• B. Utilitarianism
• C. Existentialism
• D. Pragmatism

Answer: (B)

Hedonism centers on pleasure as the highest good, and utilitarianism builds that idea into a full ethical framework by judging actions by their tendency to maximize overall happiness. In other words, the goal of producing the greatest net pleasure for the greatest number is the core standard utilitarianism uses, so hedonic ideas are naturally a part of it. The other options don’t center on pleasure as the defining criterion: Stoicism prioritizes virtue and mastery over desires; existentialism focuses on individual meaning and freedom; pragmatism emphasizes practical usefulness rather than pleasure as the ultimate good.

Hedonism centers on pleasure as the highest good, and utilitarianism builds that idea into a full ethical framework by judging actions by their tendency to maximize overall happiness. In other words, the goal of producing the greatest net pleasure for the greatest number is the core standard utilitarianism uses, so hedonic ideas are naturally a part of it. The other options don’t center on pleasure as the defining criterion: Stoicism prioritizes virtue and mastery over desires; existentialism focuses on individual meaning and freedom; pragmatism emphasizes practical usefulness rather than pleasure as the ultimate good.