Philosophy A-Level
Hedonism
What Hedonism means in Philosophy A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Hedonism
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Hedonism in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The view that pleasure and the absence of pain are what matter, so that actions are judged by their tendency to produce pleasure or reduce pain.
Topics that use Hedonism
- Normative ethical theories (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Acting from duty
- Conditional versus unconditional commands
- Consequences as the determinant of moral value
- Consequentialism
- Contradiction in conception
- Contradiction in will
- Demandingness and alienation
- Doctrine of the mean
Using Hedonism in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Philosophy questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Philosophy A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge