immoralism

Immoralism is a term used in philosophy and literature to describe a stance that challenges or rejects conventional morality, arguing that individuals may define their own values and pursue personal flourishing independently of society's moral codes.

In philosophy, immoralism is linked to critiques of moral absolutes, moralism, or social constructivism; it is not simply unlawful behavior but a position that questions whether moral norms are binding.

Historically, the concept appears in late 19th and early 20th-century thought and literature. Friedrich Nietzsche discussed the idea of individuals who repudiate slave morality to create life-affirming values; André Gide's L'Immoraliste presents a protagonist who acts beyond conventional morality in pursuit of self-authentication.

In literary use, immoralism can refer to characters who violate social rules to reveal moral ambiguities or to critique morality itself.

Differences with immorality: immorality is simply the state of wrongdoing; immoralism is a normative or critical stance that may justify or explore such acts within a larger critique of morality.

Criticism: Critics argue immoralism can undermine social norms and lead to harm; defenders suggest it exposes hidden assumptions or supports personal autonomy.

Contemporary usage: the term is used in philosophy of ethics, literary criticism, and discussions of moral psychology; it is often associated with debates about moral relativism, egoism, and authenticity.

See also: moral relativism; egoism; nihilism; L'Immoraliste; Nietzschean critique of morality.