Epicureanism, founded by Epicurus in ancient Greece, teaches that happiness comes from simple pleasures and avoiding pain. This philosophy emphasizes living a modest life, cultivating friendships, and freeing oneself from fears of gods and death.
Unlike the Stoics, who focused on virtue and reason, Epicureans sought contentment through basic needs and meaningful relationships. Their approach to happiness involved distinguishing between necessary and unnecessary desires, and finding joy in life's simple pleasures.
Epicurean Philosophy for Happiness
Key Principles and Beliefs
- Epicureanism is a philosophical system founded by Epicurus in the 4th century BCE that emphasizes the pursuit of happiness through the avoidance of pain and the cultivation of simple pleasures
- The Epicurean concept of ataraxia refers to a state of tranquility and freedom from fear or disturbance, which is considered the highest form of happiness
- Epicureans believe that the universe is composed of atoms and void, and that the gods, if they exist, do not interfere in human affairs
- This materialist worldview frees individuals from the fear of divine retribution and allows them to focus on their own well-being
- Epicureans distinguish between natural and necessary desires, which should be fulfilled, and unnatural or unnecessary desires, which should be avoided
- Natural and necessary desires include basic needs like food, shelter, and companionship
- Unnatural desires include luxuries and the pursuit of fame or power (status symbols, expensive possessions)
The Epicurean Tetrapharmakos
- The Epicurean tetrapharmakos, or "four-part cure," consists of four key principles:
- Do not fear the gods
- Do not fear death
- What is good is easy to obtain
- What is bad is easy to endure
- By adhering to these principles, individuals can achieve a state of ataraxia
- Overcoming fear of divine punishment allows for personal autonomy
- Accepting mortality reduces anxiety about the unknown
- Recognizing the accessibility of basic needs promotes contentment
- Developing resilience helps manage inevitable hardships (illness, loss)
Key Elements of Epicurean Thought
The Importance of Friendship and Community
- Epicureans place a high value on friendship, believing that it is essential for achieving happiness and a sense of security
- Friends provide emotional support, companionship, and a shared understanding of Epicurean values
- Epicurus established a community called "The Garden," where he and his followers lived a simple life focused on the cultivation of friendship and the pursuit of wisdom
- The Garden served as a model for Epicurean communities throughout the ancient world
- Members engaged in philosophical discussions, shared meals, and supported one another
- Epicureans recognize that some forms of pain, such as the pain of illness or the loss of a loved one, are inevitable
- They believe that by cultivating a philosophical attitude and relying on the support of friends, one can endure these pains and maintain a state of ataraxia
Simplicity and the Avoidance of Pain
- Epicureans advocate for a simple lifestyle, free from excess and the pursuit of unnecessary pleasures
- They believe that by limiting one's desires to what is natural and necessary, one can avoid the pain and distress that often accompany the pursuit of wealth, status, or power
- Examples of a simple lifestyle include modest housing, basic clothing, and wholesome food
- The Epicurean concept of hedonic calculus involves weighing the potential pleasure and pain associated with a particular action or decision
- By carefully considering the long-term consequences of one's choices, individuals can make decisions that maximize pleasure and minimize pain
- For example, choosing a healthy diet over indulgent eating to avoid future health problems
- Epicureans recognize that some forms of pain are unavoidable, but they emphasize the development of coping mechanisms and emotional resilience
- Practicing mindfulness, engaging in self-reflection, and seeking the support of friends can help manage pain and maintain a sense of well-being
Epicurean vs Stoic Approaches to Fulfillment
Fundamental Beliefs and Goals
- Both Epicureanism and Stoicism are Hellenistic philosophical schools that emerged in the 4th century BCE and sought to provide practical guidance for achieving a fulfilling life
- However, they differ in their fundamental beliefs and approaches to happiness
- Epicureans believe that the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain are the keys to happiness
- They focus on the cultivation of simple pleasures and the avoidance of unnecessary desires
- Stoics emphasize the importance of living in accordance with reason and virtue, regardless of external circumstances
- They advocate for the development of self-control, resilience, and the acceptance of one's fate
Role of Friendship and Community
- Both philosophies stress the importance of friendship and community, but for different reasons
- Epicureans value friendship as a source of pleasure and security
- They believe that close relationships contribute to overall happiness and provide support during difficult times
- Stoics see friendship as a means of practicing virtue and supporting one another in the pursuit of a rational life
- They emphasize the importance of choosing friends who share similar values and can help one grow in wisdom and character
Influence on Western Thought
- Both Epicureanism and Stoicism have had a significant influence on Western thought
- Epicureanism has inspired hedonistic and utilitarian philosophies
- These schools of thought prioritize the maximization of pleasure and the minimization of pain as the basis for moral decision-making (Jeremy Bentham, John Stuart Mill)
- Stoicism has influenced the development of cognitive-behavioral therapy and the modern self-help movement
- Stoic principles, such as reframing negative thoughts and focusing on what is within one's control, are central to many contemporary therapeutic approaches (Albert Ellis, Aaron Beck)