The term, "rational hedonism" is a term commonly discussed in philosophical circles. However, many people today are unaware that it has historical roots dating back to ancient Greece. In the gardens of Epicurus, men and women — delighted in engaging in discussions about ideas, diverse philosophies, and how to live the best life.

For centuries, virtues and the Delphic Maxims were revered as the ultimate benchmarks for personal conduct. The pursuit of pleasure and the art of living a pleasant life were considered the highest forms of good. Rational Hedonism, therefore, serves as a pathway leading back to a simpler and more realistic lifestyle—one grounded in human nature and yielding immediate results in the present moment.

In summary, Rational Hedonism encourages a balanced approach to life, emphasizing both pleasure and practicality. It invites us to embrace the here-and-now while staying attuned to our fundamental human needs and desires.

In a bygone era, people relished simple conversations with family and guests over shared meals. They engaged in mental sparring, debating their perspectives on a wide range of topics. Even when discussions grew heated, they were able to agree to disagree. There was an anticipation that not everyone would concur, which ensured lively and witty debates—where participants vied to make the most compelling points and counterpoints.

Public spaces buzzed with gatherings where individuals would assemble to listen to especially entertaining and often boisterous “discussions.” During this time, there was an acceptance of diverse theories, beliefs, and points of view. It was an age of curiosity—an openness to embracing the quest for knowledge. Theatrical performances, artistic expressions, and written classics flourished alongside discoveries in science, astronomy, and human thought.

Rational Hedonism, with its shadowy origins possibly influenced by Indian thought, has endured over two millennia. Its core principles include a natural curiosity, an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, and a genuine understanding of pleasure. Rational Hedonists sought freedom from fear of any afterlife or judgment by gods. Despite the dark shadows cast by Emperors Constantine and Theodosius, who stifled open debates and suppressed diverse religious beliefs, these philosophical, free-thinking minds found refuge in Arabic countries and Hellenic settlements in India. There, they reorganized, blended in, and passed down their teachings within families and selective groups for centuries.

Their influence resurfaced during various Renaissance movements, the Enlightenment, and continues to shape thought even today. Rational Hedonism remains fresh, vibrant, and alive—a testament to the enduring pursuit of wisdom and pleasure, unshackled by dogma or fear.

Rational Hedonism is often regarded as an ancient faith, but at its core, it places faith in yourself. While the concept has been co-opted by today’s narcissistic environment, deep down, you recognize that no self-help group or theistic religion can fundamentally alter your life or lead you to inner happiness unless the resolve originates from within.

Being more loving and generous toward those you care about necessitates prioritizing your Self. Rational Hedonism acknowledges our human nature, embracing our imperfections while striving to become our best selves. Unlike other religions burdened by rigid, centuries-old dogmas—complete with guilt-inducing “sins” and the specter of eternal punishment—Rational Hedonism takes a different path.

Ultimately, it all hinges on your desires and inner strength. The choices you make, the company you keep—they all play a role. Do you aspire to improve yourself, accept who you are, or alter habits? Is your goal to lead a better life—for yourself or for those you love? Or perhaps you find contentment in self-acceptance, satisfaction, and happiness with your current state.

Remember: It all begins within you.

“Know Thyself”—etched into the ancient stones of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi—resonates across time, urging us to explore the depths of our own existence.

Now, let’s delve into the heart of Rational Hedonism. But first, a crucial distinction: hedonism here should not be confused with narcissism. The latter, a self-destructive force, extends beyond mere “self-esteem.” Narcissism breeds undeserved self-admiration, materialism, entitlement, and an inability to shoulder personal failures. It recoils from criticism, deflecting it with aggression. In essence, narcissism is the ugly offspring of the “self-esteem” movement.

Hedonism, as Rational Hedonists understand it, traces its lineage back to Democritus and Epicurus. Unlike narcissism, these refreshing perspectives emphasize:

  1. Moderation: A balanced pursuit of pleasure.
  2. Happiness: Found through virtuous living.
  3. Valuing Family: Cherishing those bonds that shape our lives.
  4. Personal Integrity: Upholding principles even when no one is watching.
  5. Passion: Fueling our endeavors with fervor.

Rational Hedonism also advocates tending to your body—the very temple that houses your essence. It embraces size acceptance, but with a caveat: excessive over-indulgence in life’s pleasures can be counterproductive. Instead, it encourages physical and mental activity—a recipe for a longer, more vibrant, and healthier existence.

So, my fellow seeker, heed the ancient wisdom: Know Thyself. And within that self-knowledge, discover the path to a life well-lived—a harmonious blend of pleasure, virtue, and the pursuit of genuine happiness.

 

 

"Then, overwhelmed by the afflictions I suffered in connection with my sons, I sent again and inquired of the god what I should do to pass the rest1 of my life most happily; and he answered me:

‘Knowing thyself, O Croesus—thus shalt thou live and be happy.’2"

 

1 The secret of a happy life

2 There is a reference to the famous inscription on the temple at Delphi—γνῶθι σεαυτόν.

 

Xenophon. Xenophon in Seven Volumes, 5 and 6. Walter Miller. Harvard University Press, Cambridge, MA; William Heinemann, Ltd., London. 1914.

The Annenberg CPB/Project provided support for entering this text.

Purchase a copy of this text (not necessarily the same edition) from Amazon.com

 

Rational Hedonism acknowledges our innate desire for pleasure, coupled with our intelligence. Yet, where has our discernment gone? Instead, society fixates on money, appearance, and material possessions. Media and advertisers thrive on our discontent.

But here’s the truth: quick fixes—buying the latest gadget or chasing fleeting pleasures—often leave us wanting more. There’s always something newer, shinier. Orgasms, like instant highs, fade. And we’re left wondering: Why hasn’t it brought lasting happiness?

Perhaps the answer lies within us, waiting to be discovered.

 Nazism almost dead because of complete abject defeat, same as in Imperial Japan. Aject defeat, and the ideology that really stoked that kind of hatred and warfare evaporated. and now we've had good allies for decades with Germany and Japan. Military force of arms towards Hamas will likely provide a better future for the Palestinian people at this stage. In Hamas case, dismantling their military power and the destruction of an adversary actually goes a long toward ending the ideology that fuels it, Iran is the support that has to be severed from all its proxies.

(Kirby said you can't eliminate an ideology, completely dismantle their military capability, and they become small pockets of unrest.) 

Rational Hedonism recognizes both man and woman's natural inclination for pleasure, together with their intelligent nature. The search for happiness and pleasures, appear simple enough to understand, but where has the intelligent part of our nature gone concerning them?     Instead, our Society is obsessed with money (preferably without working), being thin and "beautiful", having the latest sports shoes, cell phone or gadget.  Media and advertisers make billions keeping You feeling dissatisfied and unhappy.
     Giving in and buying is a quick fix no-win scenario and usually a let-down. There's always something newer and better.  Pleasures, like orgasms, are wonderful for an immediate "high", but You soon find Yourself let down and wondering  (if You got what You thought You wanted) why hasn't it made You happy ? 

 

Copilot Version:

  1. Natural Inclination and Intelligence:

    • Rational Hedonism acknowledges our innate desire for pleasure, coupled with our intelligence.
    • But where has our discernment gone when it comes to pursuing happiness and pleasures?

  2. Society’s Obsessions:

    • Instead of focusing on genuine well-being, our society fixates on:
      • Money: Often without the effort of earning it.
      • Appearance: The pursuit of thinness and conventional beauty.
      • Material Possessions: The latest gadgets, sports shoes, and cell phones.
    • Media and advertisers thrive on perpetuating our dissatisfaction.

  3. The Quick Fix Trap:

    • Succumbing to consumerism—buying the next shiny thing—is a no-win scenario.
    • There’s always something newer, better, and more enticing.
    • Pleasures, like orgasms, provide an immediate “high,” but they often leave us wondering: Why hasn’t it brought lasting happiness?

In essence, Rational Hedonism encourages us to seek deeper fulfillment beyond fleeting pleasures. It prompts us to question what truly makes us happy and to recognize that lasting contentment lies beyond mere acquisition.

Rational Hedonism has continued to quietly grow as an unpromoted religious movement, however, it does not seek out tax-exempt status. Tax exemption is overused and abused by theistic churches.
                             (More on that HERE)
     No R.H. Celebrant or Garden Officiant will ever ask for a "tithe" or pass-the-plate- style offering. That tradition comes from the Roman-originated churches.  
     Personal monitory gifts for services rendered are between the the client and Celebrant or Officiant. They are responsible for claiming such on personal taxes.               While anyone following the tenants, maxims/virtues, foundations and beliefs may claim the title, "Rational Hedonist", only legitimately recognized Celebrants or Officiants through the Leadership Council will be able to provide official paperwork from organization headquarters, verifying they have a thorough understanding of the ancient teachings, history, philosophy, celebrations, etc. 
     If you want to donate to a charity, that's your choice, it's your money, but, because Rational Hedonism is not a multi-million organization, and does not (at this time) have its own stores or products, we do endorse relevant advertising (not irritating pop-ups or scams).
     Any purchases through these Affiliate ads, go straight back into the organizational expenses, not into any one person's pocket. 

 

Copilot Version: 

Rational Hedonism, quietly growing as an unheralded religious movement, deliberately avoids seeking tax-exempt status. Unlike theistic churches that often exploit this privilege, Rational Hedonism stands apart.

Here’s why:

  1. No Tithes or Pass-the-Plate:

    • Rational Hedonist Celebrants or Garden Officiants will never solicit a “tithe” or engage in plate-passing rituals. Such practices trace back to Roman-originated churches.
    • Personal monetary gifts exchanged for services rendered remain a private matter between the client and the Celebrant or Officiant. It’s their responsibility to report these transactions on personal taxes.

  2. Legitimacy and Recognition:

    • While anyone adhering to the tenets, maxims, virtues, foundations, and beliefs may claim the title of “Rational Hedonist,” true recognition lies with the officially sanctioned Celebrants or Officiants.
    • These recognized individuals, vetted by the Leadership Council, possess a deep understanding of ancient teachings, history, philosophy, and celebratory practices.

  3. Charitable Choices:

    • Rational Hedonism doesn’t coerce donations. If you wish to contribute to a charity, it’s your prerogative.
    • As a non-multi-million-dollar organization without its own products or stores, we endorse relevant advertising (sans irritating pop-ups or scams).
    • Any purchases through our affiliate ads directly support organizational expenses—not lining any individual’s pockets.

In essence, Rational Hedonism thrives on transparency, integrity, and a commitment to genuine well-being.

 Those who attempted to suppress free speech and alternative/innovative ideas have been historically remembered as "the bad guys".  Kings, tyrants, dictators, authoritarian (including religious) leaders, socialists, communists - along with the political groups and media that support, aide, and prop them up —are not remembered favorably.

Mob mentality can incite extreme herd behavior. It's easy to feel brave and empowered while hiding behind a mask or scarf, anonymous in a crowd. Shouting people down, intimidating and destructive acts do nothing to change the hearts and rational minds of those watching, but then, they aren't really trying to are they? 

Such tactics are meant to manipulate media (instead of challenging and questioning) and politicians who often cooperate by influencing public opinion.

Mindless repetitive chants work for the simple minded, it's better when useful idiots are ignorant of facts. but are not how humans advance, searching for answers and solutions. Innovation, creativity, art, music, culture, advancements in knowledge and technology do not bloom in a system that stifles. 

Those who try to shut down free speech and alternative/innovative ideas have historically been kings, tyrants, dictators, authoritarian leaders (including religious), socialists and communists along with the political groups and media that support, aide, and prop them up.

 

feelings are just little lies we tell ourselves to argue what we really see in the mirror

They are not remembered kindly. Neither will those who are now intimidating, causing fear, disrupting and destroying lives, property and works of art.

By looking down on, even "hating" others those they see as "other", "less-then", deserving of scorn, and ignorant, they reveal their own ignorance and forfeit any serious consideration of what might be a legitimate concern or cause by failing to convince through persuasion, exchange of ideas, and the give-and-take of congenial conversation (as in not shouting or chanting down other points of view).

When seeking change, more ideas and alternatives make changes in an engaged society when won over and willing to help -- if that is the true, heart-motivated intent.

as opposed to being part of destructive extremist haters being duped brainwashed army by someone else's all-or-nothing extremist language. Doesn't each of those individuals really want legitimate consideration? Or do they find themselves more comfortable within the conformity of mob/herd violence? brute force 

Even animals don't shit in their den, they don't destroy their environment or randomly kill unless diseased and/or rabid. Humans who randomly shoot, run over, assault strangers who have their own lives, and destroy businesses, homes and public property in their neighborhoods have lost reasoning skills and for the protection of children, women and elderly, need to be removed from the community for the safety of all. 

people who are peacefully protesting for an issue are not throwing bottles and chairs .. mayor ny

not threatening other people because they dont look like us or are different religion or don't agree with us

free speech has limits, can't incite, can't endanger, can't threaten people

say this more concisely: 1. Constantly seeking recognition for one’s victimhood A person with a victim mentality seeks validation of their victim status from others. This may be expressed as constant complaining about setbacks or perceiving changes in circumstances as unfair. Other people are required to agree that these events amount to a personally directed injustice, or else they too will be accused of victimizing the person
 
 
Copilot

Certainly! Here’s a concise version: A victim mentality seeks validation from others by constantly complaining about setbacks or perceiving changes as unfair.

 
 
 
 
You
say this more concisely: 2. Moral elitism A person with a victim mentality implicitly believes in their own moral superiority. In short, they are right, and those who disagree with them or have different views are wrong. This can be summed up in the colloquial expression “it’s my way or the highway.” It points to black-and-white thinking, a lack of nuance, and an inability to cope with complexity. It may be expressed in a sense of entitlement to whatever is defined as “good,” regardless of effort or merit. Again, it also indicates a lack of psychological flexibility that is required to bounce back and develop resilience
 
 
Copilot

Certainly! Here’s a concise version: Moral elitism is when someone believes in their own moral superiority, insisting that their way is right and others are wrong. It often involves black-and-white thinking, a lack of nuance, and an entitlement to what they define as “good,” regardless of effort or merit. This mindset hinders psychological flexibility and resilience.

 
 
 
 
You
say this more concisely: 3. Lack of empathy for the pain and suffering of others A person stuck in a victim mentality is self-absorbed with little ability to imagine other perspectives. It doesn’t matter how much another person may be suffering; if they do not provide ongoing validation of perceived victimization, they risk being deemed a victimizer. Those with a victim mentality lack emotional literacy, compassion, and empathy. This is deeply disruptive to all kinds of relationships, both personal and professional. It can lead to rejection, isolation, and loneliness, which is often seen as further evidence of unfairness
 
 
Copilot

Certainly! Here’s a concise version: Lack of empathy characterizes a victim mentality. These individuals are self-absorbed, struggle to see other perspectives, and demand ongoing validation of their victimization. Their emotional literacy, compassion, and empathy are lacking, which disrupts relationships and can lead to rejection and loneliness. 🤝

 
 
 
 
You
how to say emotional literacy simpler
 
 
Copilot
 
 
 
You
say this more concisely: 4. Ruminating about past victimization Rumination involves repetitive thoughts about previous negative experiences, which can lead to a low mood, including feelings of shame, sadness, despair, and even depression
 
 

The repetitive focus (rumination) on past negative experiences can lead to feelings of shame, sadness, and depression.

 
 
 
 
You
more concisely: An individual with a victim mentality operates according to an external locus of control, meaning they believe they have little or no personal agency and attribute their difficulties, failures, or challenges to external factors, other people, or situations they can’t change.
 
 
Copilot

Certainly! Here’s a more concise version: An individual with a victim mentality attributes their problems to external forces beyond their control, rather than their own actions.

 
 
 
 
You
say this better: While a victim mentality is a brittle and painful state of mind, it can also be a form of manipulation designed to enforce compliance with the “victimized” individual’s goals (Kets de Vries, 2012). Signs of a victim mindset When a person plays the victim, they may assume the role of victim to get their needs met via secondary gains — advantages that accrue from avoiding responsibility for their problems. Signs of a victim mindset often include the following: Blaming others for their problems and difficulties Externalizing responsibility by seeing themselves as passive recipients of negative events Helplessness due to feeling at the mercy of external circumstances beyond their control Self-pity, dwelling on perceived misfortunes, and feeling sorry for themselves Resisting change or taking proactive steps to improve their situation Negative outlook on life, expecting and anticipating negative outcomes
 
 
Copilot

Certainly! Here’s a more concise version:

Signs of a victim mindset:

  • Blaming others for problems and difficulties
  • Externalizing responsibility by seeing themselves as passive recipients of negative events
  • Feeling helpless due to external circumstances beyond their control
  • Dwelling on perceived misfortunes and feeling sorry for themselves
  • Resisting change or proactive steps to improve their situation
  • Expecting and anticipating negative outcomes in life. 🌟
 
 
 
 
You
say this more clearly
 
 
Copilot

Certainly! Here’s a clearer version:

Signs of a victim mindset:

  • Blaming others for problems and difficulties
  • Externalizing responsibility by seeing themselves as passive recipients of negative events
  • Feeling helpless due to external circumstances beyond their control
  • Dwelling on perceived misfortunes and feeling sorry for themselves
  • Resisting change or proactive steps to improve their situation
  • Expecting and anticipating negative outcomes in life. 
 
 
 
 
You
say this more clearly: A victim complex can prevent the transition to healing and integration, but this can be overcome through the cultivation of self-awareness, a willingness to change, and a commitment to taking responsibility for actions and choices.
 
 
Copilot

Certainly! Here’s a clearer version:

Overcoming a victim complex requires:

  • Developing self-awareness to recognize one’s behaviors and patterns
  • Being willing to change these behaviors
  • Take responsibility for one’s actions and choices to facilitate healing and personal growth. 
 
 
 
 
You
say this so junior high kids can understand: Having experienced victimization, it’s normal to feel sadness, anger, and anxiety about the future while grieving any loss attached to the experience. However, eventually, a victim of crime or trauma will begin to heal by engaging in practices to aid post-traumatic growth. A victim complex can prevent the transition to healing and integration, but this can be overcome through the cultivation of self-awareness, a willingness to change, and a commitment to taking responsibility for actions and choices. If you are working with a client stuck in a victim mentality, here are interventions that can help shift the victim mindset, along with links to further resources. Encourage your client’s self-reflection to improve their self-awareness and identify unhelpful thinking patterns at the root of the victim complex. Perform an assessment of your client’s strengths and adopt a strengths-based approach to working with them. Challenge negative thoughts that prevent the client from taking responsibility for solving problems. Assist your client with setting realistic goals by breaking down larger goals into smaller, more manageable steps. Achieving small successes can build confidence and self-efficacy and reduce feelings of helplessness. Focus on solutions by helping your client develop problem-solving skills and take proactive steps to address challenges. Introduce your client to a growth mindset by reframing setbacks as a natural part of the human experience and opportunities for learning and personal development. Help your client cultivate resilience by facing challenges, adapting to change, learning new coping skills, and developing psychological flexibility. Encourage your client to cultivate a sense of gratitude by learning to appreciate the good things in life, no matter how small. Coach your client to set healthy boundaries with others to prevent manipulation and exploitation. Saying “no” when necessary prevents overwhelm and prioritizes wellbeing. Encourage your client to practice self-compassion by helping them accept that everyone makes mistakes and faces challenges. Coach them on how to treat themselves with the same compassion they would offer a friend. Overcoming a victim complex is a gradual process that requires consistent self-reflection with the support of a coach, counselor, or therapist. Building resilience is crucial to developing a healthier mindset based on psychological flexibility, realistic expectations, compassion for oneself and others, and an internal locus of control.
 
 
Copilot

Here’s how you can explain it to junior high kids:

Imagine if someone got hurt, like falling off their bike. It’s totally okay to feel sad or mad about it. But after some time, they start to feel better, especially if they learn new ways to ride safely.

Now, if someone keeps thinking they always get hurt because they’re unlucky, they might not try to ride again. But if they learn to think, “Hey, I can be careful and get better at this,” they’ll start to feel stronger and happier.

If you’re helping a friend who feels like they always have bad luck, you can:

  • Talk with them about what they’re good at and remind them of that.
  • Help them set small goals, like riding a little further each day.
  • Teach them to solve problems, like fixing a flat tire.
  • Show them that it’s okay to mess up sometimes, and we can learn from it.
  • Help them be thankful for the good stuff, even small things like a sunny day.
  • Tell them it’s okay to say no if they’re not comfortable with something.
  • Remind them to be kind to themselves, just like they would be to a friend.

Getting over feeling like bad stuff always happens takes time, but with help and practice, anyone can start to feel better and in charge of their life.

 

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