Felicismo

Felicismo is a philosophical position that centers happiness or well-being as the fundamental aim of life and the primary standard for judging actions. In its core form, felicismo treats happiness as the intrinsic good that should guide moral reasoning and personal choice.

Scholars describe felicismo in a few related ways. Some define it as a form of hedonism in which pleasure and avoidance of suffering constitute the sole intrinsic goods, and happiness is achieved when these conditions are maximized. Others frame felicismo as a form of eudaimonism, where happiness corresponds to a flourishing life, which may involve virtues, meaningful activity, and stable well-being rather than simple momentary pleasure. In relation to utilitarianism, felicismo can be seen as focusing on happiness as the ultimate end, while utilitarianism emphasizes maximizing overall happiness across individuals; the two are often contrasted in ethical discussions.

Usage of the term is more common in contemporary and moral psychology discussions than as a long-established historical doctrine. It is discussed in debates about how to define well-being, how to balance happiness with rights and justice, and how cultural or personal variations influence the conception of a good life.

Critics argue that felicismo risks reducing morality to a single metric, potentially neglecting justice, rights, fairness, or the welfare of others who may not share the same happiness standards. Proponents respond that happiness is a comprehensive, motivating criterion for evaluating actions and policies.