The ethical doctrine that feeling is the only criterion for what is good

WordNet Word definitions in WordNet
n. desire for sensual pleasures [syn: sensuality , sensualness ] (philosophy) the ethical doctrine that feeling is the only criterion for what is good [syn: sensationalism ]

Douglas Harper's Etymology Dictionary Word definitions in Douglas Harper's Etymology Dictionary
1803, "the philosophical doctrine that the senses are the sole source of knowledge," from sensual + -ism . From 1813 as "addiction to sensual indulgence."

Wikipedia Word definitions in Wikipedia
Sensualism is the persistent or excessive pursuit of sensual pleasures and interests. In philosophy, it refers to the ethical doctrine that feeling is the only criterion for what is good. In epistemology it is a doctrine whereby sensations and perception ...

Wiktionary Word definitions in Wiktionary
n. 1 Addiction to or obsession with sensual pleasures or affairs 2 (context ethics English) The doctrine that gratification of the senses is the highest good. 3 (context epistemology English) The doctrine that all knowledge not only originates in sensation, ...

The Collaborative International Dictionary Word definitions in The Collaborative International Dictionary
Sensualism \Sen"su*al*ism\, n. [Cf. F. sensualisme.] The condition or character of one who is sensual; subjection to sensual feelings and appetite; sensuality. (Philos.) The doctrine that all our ideas, or the operations of the understanding, not only originate ...