sensualism
- Noun:
- A philosophical doctrine: In philosophy, sensualism is the theory that all knowledge originates solely from sensory experience, and that sensory perceptions are the only valid source of ideas and knowledge.
- An ethical or lifestyle doctrine: Sensualism is the ethical doctrine or personal devotion to the pursuit of sensual pleasures and gratification, often emphasizing physical and sensory enjoyment.
Noun (Philosophical):
- The philosopher's sensualism contrasted sharply with the rationalist school of thought.
- His argument was rooted in sensualism, claiming we can know nothing beyond our senses.
Noun (Ethical/Lifestyle):
- The novel critiques the empty sensualism of the aristocratic class.
- He abandoned his ascetic practices for a life of sheer sensualism.
"Philosophical sensualism": Often used to specify the epistemological theory, distinguishing it from hedonistic connotations.
- The debate between rationalism and philosophical sensualism has persisted for centuries.
"Ethical sensualism": Used to specify the doctrine that prioritizes sensory pleasure as a primary good.
- Ethical sensualism was a guiding principle in his pursuit of aesthetic experiences.
Sensualist (noun): A person who adheres to or practices sensualism, especially in the pursuit of pleasures.
- He was known as a sensualist, always seeking the finest foods and wines.
Sensual (adjective): Relating to or affecting the senses rather than the intellect; gratifying the physical senses.
- The painting was a sensual delight of color and texture.
Sensuality (noun): The enjoyment, expression, or pursuit of physical, especially sexual, pleasure.
- The music evoked a feeling of deep sensuality.
- Philosophical context: Empiricism (specifically radical empiricism), sensationalism.
- Ethical/Lifestyle context: Hedonism, voluptuousness, sybaritism.
- Philosophical context: Rationalism, idealism, intellectualism.
- Ethical/Lifestyle context: Asceticism, puritanism, stoicism.
"Cult of sensuality": A phrase sometimes used to describe an extreme or devoted practice of sensualism.
- The poet was accused of promoting a cult of sensuality.
"Sensual gratification": A common phrase associated with the goals of sensualism.
- His life was dedicated to the sensual gratification found in art and nature.
- (philosophy) the ethical doctrine that feeling is the only criterion for what is good
- desire for sensual pleasures