Hedonism is a philosophical theory that suggests the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain are the primary goals of human life. It posits that happiness is the highest good, and individuals should seek experiences that bring them joy and satisfaction. This concept can be traced back to ancient thinkers like Aristippus and Epicurus, who emphasized the importance of sensory pleasures and mental well-being. There are different forms of hedonism, including ethical hedonism, which argues that actions are morally right if they promote pleasure, and psychological hedonism, which claims that people are naturally inclined to seek pleasure. Critics of hedonism often argue that it can lead to selfishness or a lack of long-term fulfillment.