Epicurus

Definition

Epicurus was an ancient Greek philosopher who founded the school of philosophy known as Epicureanism, which emphasized the pursuit of happiness through the cultivation of friendships, the enjoyment of simple pleasures, and the attainment of ataraxia, or tranquility. His teachings challenge traditional views on determinism and provide a framework for understanding death and the divine.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Epicurus rejected the notion of teleology in atomism, arguing that events happen due to random atomic motions rather than for a specific purpose or design.
2. He believed that true friendship is crucial for achieving happiness, as it provides emotional support and enhances one's life experiences.
3. Epicurus taught that fear of death is irrational; he argued that when we exist, death is not, and when death comes, we no longer exist to experience it.
4. His materialistic view posits that everything, including the soul, is made of atoms, dismissing any idea of an afterlife or divine intervention.
5. Epicureanism encourages individuals to seek pleasure wisely, prioritizing intellectual and spiritual joys over fleeting physical pleasures to maintain a tranquil life.

Review Questions

• How does Epicurus' rejection of teleology in atomism influence his view on happiness?
  • Epicurus' rejection of teleology means he believes that events are not preordained for a specific purpose. This perspective influences his view on happiness by suggesting that individuals should focus on maximizing personal well-being through friendships and simple pleasures rather than seeking external validation or predetermined goals. By emphasizing personal choice and the randomness of events, Epicurus encourages people to create their own paths toward a fulfilling life.
• Discuss the role of friendship in Epicurean ethics and how it compares to Aristotle's theory of friendship.
  • In Epicurean ethics, friendship is seen as a vital source of happiness and emotional support, essential for achieving ataraxia. Unlike Aristotle, who views friendship as based on virtue and character, Epicurus emphasizes friendships that provide pleasure and comfort. While both philosophers recognize the importance of relationships in leading a good life, Epicurus prioritizes practical support in everyday life over moral excellence as the foundation for strong bonds.
• Evaluate how Epicurus' views on death and the gods contribute to his broader philosophical system and its implications for modern thought.
  • Epicurus' views on death—that it is merely the cessation of sensation and should not be feared—are integral to his philosophy, as they liberate individuals from anxiety about mortality. Additionally, by positing that gods are indifferent to human affairs, he shifts focus from divine retribution to personal responsibility for happiness. This rejection of fear and embrace of rational inquiry has profound implications for modern thought, promoting secular ethics and encouraging individuals to find meaning in life without relying on supernatural beliefs.

Related terms

Ataraxia: A state of serene calmness and freedom from disturbance, which Epicurus considered essential for achieving happiness.

Atomism: The philosophical belief that everything in the universe is composed of indivisible units called atoms, a concept embraced by Epicurus to explain natural phenomena without invoking supernatural forces.

Pleasure Principle: The ethical doctrine in Epicureanism that holds that pleasure is the highest good and the primary aim of human life, but emphasizes the pursuit of moderate and sustainable pleasures.