this post was submitted on 23 Oct 2025
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Obviously there are also counter arguments as for every philosophical position, but the experience machine is a thought experiment to show how hedonism isn't a good basis for well being if you're trying to base your virtues or ethics in well being
https://wikipedia.org/wiki/Experience_machine
I never understood why this was seen as a good counterargument. I think the hedonist would say just say "yes, hook me up" assuming people aren't suffering in the real world that they would otherwise be helping. The reason for wanting to make change is if people are suffering, so if no one is suffering the hedonist would just say sign me up, no?
I don't think that engages the argument from a hedonistic perspective it's addressing though. Prioritizing and valuing reducing suffering and helping over pleasure violates the thesis that pleasure is the ultimate good.
Reducing suffering increases global pleasure, as can helping people.
Reality is worse: there's a few hundred billionaires living a fantasy live, while dooming us all.