Epicurus, a celebrated philosopher who established the Epicurean belief, was born in 341 B.C. and passed away in 270 B.C. He advocated for the pursuit of carnal desires but also recognized the significance of experiencing pain in life. Without suffering, individuals would undeniably take everything for granted. Epicurus educated a group of followers to live modestly within their means and dwell in communities comprised of people with pleasant demeanors. His philosophy presented valid solutions for coping with emotional distress and the numerous challenges that life presents. He concluded that happiness equates to the “absence of pain”. According to Epicurus, individuals without friends are not in a better position. Friendship is one of the many delightful aspects that make life worthwhile. Happiness, in his view, is a state of mind. (Bergsma) Epicureanism is a philosophy based on the belief that fear is both unnecessary and irrational. The Greeks harbored fear towards the gods, but this notion teaches against living in fear. Fate is determined by each individual. If one plans their life in the most virtuous manner possible, they will lead a fulfilling existence. No one deserves cruelty. The fear of death also influenced this belief system. (Strenger) Epicureanism Vs. Stoicism
Epicureanism, founded in the third century B.C., emerged during a time of philosophical inquiry in Greece. This belief system offered a path to happiness and took on religious dimensions. Followers of Epicureanism formed a close-knit community and had their own school dedicated to teaching its principles. The founder of this school, worshipped like a deity, exemplified the ideal way of life prescribed by Epicurus. Essential to this philosophy was a caution against excessive indulgence in luxury and material possessions, as true happiness could be achieved independent of fortune or material wealth (Bergsma). Epicureanism exhibits characteristics of hedonism, which embraces the pursuit of pleasure and defines moral standards according to what brings joy or pain to individuals. Afterlife considerations play no role, as the deceased are viewed simply as…
Epicureanism and Stoicism are two contrasting philosophies. The former argues that since the dead cannot feel pain or pleasure, death should not be feared. This belief is based on the idea that a fulfilling life is achieved by finding joy in simple things and eliminating fear from the mind. Epicureanism encompasses four fundamental truths.
1. “Do not be afraid of the gods.
According to Bergsma, Epicurus believed that individuals should establish their own principles and moral code because the gods do not interfere in human affairs. Praying to the gods is useless as they do not listen, and change requires individual action.
Epicurus also argued that death does not affect the living and the fear of death often leads to depression. However, he eliminated this fear by stating that the dead do not exist.
Epicureanism Vs. Stoicism
Both Epicurus and Lucretius reject dualism, which posits that the body is material while the soul is immaterial. They believe that an individual consists of a body and a soul, both of which are substantial and mortal. According to Epicurus, death involves the separation of soul-atoms from the body as they reunite with atomic material in the universe. Once separated from the body, the soul loses its influence and cannot experience sensations. Pain and pleasure arise from the fusion between the soul and body; therefore, when this fusion ends, an individual becomes incapable of feeling anything (Glannon). Lucretius, an adherent of Epicurus, also agrees that life before birth and after death are comparable periods of time. Embracing this perspective implies that fixating on what happens after death is irrational because one cannot experience pleasure or pain before or after life. This argument supports the idea that fearing death is unfounded (Glannon).
Epicurus and Stoicism are contrasting philosophies regarding human priorities and happiness. Epicurus argues that people’s priorities are often misguided, leading to unhappiness. He suggests that satisfying basic needs such as water, food, shelter, and protection can bring pleasure and alleviate pain. However, he discourages the unnecessary pursuit of expensive foods or luxury items, as well as the desire for fame or wealth. Epicurus believes that excess and wealth do not contribute significantly to happiness or well-being. Instead, he advocates for focusing on past pleasures and positive experiences to overcome pain. By redirecting the mind’s attention, it can convince itself that it is no longer in pain.
The text compares Epicureanism and Stoicism, two philosophical beliefs that were gaining popularity around the same time. According to Freud, living life without irrational fear is important, and he encouraged his patients to let go of their underdeveloped superego. Meanwhile, Stoics believed that virtue, defined as behavior demonstrating high moral standards, is essential for a fulfilled life. They emphasized the importance of not being controlled by feelings and desires.
1. The act of separating oneself from their emotions.
2. The act of not expressing your feelings.
3. The act of having control over your emotions. (Wagstaff)
Logics, ethics, and metaphysics are significant principles in Stoicism. Logic focuses on one’s objective judgment at a particular moment. Ethics focuses on selfless actions. Metaphysics focuses on willingly accepting and understanding the differences between Epicureanism and Stoicism.
According to Robertson, Stoics highly value truth, justice, temperance, and fortitude. Stoicism is seen as a challenging practice that involves fully engaging with life. Achieving apathy is difficult because humans naturally form emotional connections with others and even inanimate objects. Stoics argue that people often confuse finding importance in things with emotional attachment. Although one does not need to completely let go of worries, the goal is to not be consumed by irrational troubles. Furtak highlights Thoreau’s belief that “The mind can be profaned by the habit of attending to trivial things,” underscoring the sacredness of the brain (Furtak). Those who believe in Stoicism must avoid activities that may lead them astray from their virtuous path and steer clear of negative influences. Thoreau suggests that purifying oneself allows for a closer connection to God. Similarly, Stoics advocate surrendering control to the noble aspects of our souls so that benevolence prevails (Furtak). The ongoing debate between Epicureanism and Stoicism continues.
Epicureanism and the Chinese philosophy of The Tao share similar concepts. Both emphasize disconnecting oneself from thoughts and emotions to achieve enlightenment or rid oneself of irrational fears, doubts, and worries. This makes sense as without worry or fear, pain cannot exist. In fact, excessive rumination and emotions can be our downfall, leading to depression. Stoicism also encourages separating oneself from emotions and focuses on being virtuous and true. However, unlike Epicureanism, Stoicism may be less attainable because humans are inherently emotional beings. It would be challenging to live without friends or family with whom one can share experiences. Epicureanism places value on friendships.
