The paradoxical sensualism in Helvétius’ ethics : desire, passion, and self-love as the leitmotif of morality

Abstract

This article offers an investigation into the notion of sensualism developed by the French philosopher Claude-Adrien Helvétius, as well as the implications this notion holds regarding human conduct from the perspective of moral action. Initially, we provide a brief contextualisation of some of the main tenets of ethics within the Western philosophical tradition, with the aim of delineating the position and originality of Helvétian ethics in relation to this tradition. Subsequently, we will specifically analyse the French thinker's proposition that seeks to emphasise the role of feelings such as passion, desire, pleasure, and self-love, situating them as fundamental elements that guide and shape moral action. Finally, we will conclude our approach by highlighting what has come to be known as the paradoxical sensualism of Helvétius' ethics, providing critical viewpoints, controversies, as well as certain agreements regarding this understanding.