Illusionists should try to build hedonium
The concept of "hedonium," a theoretical substance optimized for experiencing happiness, is explored as a potential project for illusionist philosophers and empirical researchers. Illusionism posits that conscious experiences are real but not metaphysically special, meaning that understanding the functional and biological workings of pleasure and pain could allow for the creation of hedonium. While not advocating for a universe solely filled with hedonium, the author argues that happiness is inherently good and should be pursued if it can be created cheaply and without sacrificing other values. AI