Hedonism is a philosophical doctrine that asserts that pleasure and happiness are the highest goods and ultimate aim of human life. In the context of the Hellenistic period, hedonism emphasized the pursuit of individual pleasure and contentment as central to one's existence, particularly in contrast to more austere philosophical systems. This focus on personal gratification influenced various schools of thought during this time, as thinkers sought ways to achieve a pleasurable life amidst changing social and political landscapes.
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