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Epicureanism
Epicureanism is a philosophical system founded by the Greek philosopher Epicurus around the 4th century BCE. It teaches that the ultimate goal of life is to achieve pleasure and avoid pain, but not in a hedonistic, reckless sense. Instead, Epicurus argued that true pleasure comes from simple living, moderation, and the cultivation of friendship.
Key principles of Epicureanism include:
Epicureanism is a philosophical system founded by the Greek philosopher Epicurus around the 4th century BCE. It teaches that the ultimate goal of life is to achieve pleasure and avoid pain, but not in a hedonistic, reckless sense. Instead, Epicurus argued that true pleasure comes from simple living, moderation, and the cultivation of friendship.
Key principles of Epicureanism include:
- Pleasure as the Highest Good: Pleasure, defined as the absence of physical pain (ataraxia) and mental distress (aponia), is the ultimate goal of life. However, this pleasure isn't about indulgence in excess but about attaining tranquility and contentment.
- Avoidance of Pain: The avoidance of pain and suffering is central to Epicurean ethics. This includes mental pain, which is often caused by irrational fears or desires, such as the fear of gods or death.
- Self-Sufficiency and Simple Living: Epicurus promoted a simple life that minimized unnecessary desires. He argued that many desires (like wealth or power) do not lead to lasting happiness and should be replaced with simpler, more natural pleasures.
- Friendship and Community: Epicurus emphasized the importance of friendship, seeing it as one of the greatest sources of happiness. A supportive and harmonious community of like-minded individuals can help people achieve a peaceful, pleasurable life.
- Materialism and Atomism: Epicurus adopted a form of atomism, arguing that everything in the universe is made up of atoms and void. He believed that the gods do not intervene in human affairs and that death is merely the end of consciousness, thus eliminating the fear of the afterlife.