Decadence

Decadence refers to a decline or deterioration in moral, cultural, or societal standards, often associated with excessive indulgence and luxury. It suggests a period where values weaken, and behaviors become more self-indulgent or extravagant, sometimes leading to a sense of decline or loss of integrity. Historically, the term has been used to critique societies or cultures perceived as overly focused on pleasure, material wealth, or aesthetic pursuits at the expense of discipline or moral rigor. While it often carries a negative connotation, decadence can also be viewed as a phase of artistic or cultural richness before decline.