Epicurus

Born: 341 BCE
Died: 270 BCE

Epicurus was an ancient Greek philosopher who founded the school of philosophy known as Epicureanism. His teachings focused on achieving a life of tranquility and happiness through pursuing simple pleasures, avoiding pain, and cultivating philosophical wisdom. Here are key aspects of Epicurus's life and philosophy:

Life and Background: Epicurus was born on the island of Samos in 341 BCE. He later established his philosophical school in Athens, known as "The Garden," where he taught and wrote. He lived during a time of philosophical richness in ancient Greece and was influenced by earlier philosophers, including Democritus.

Philosophical Foundation: Epicureanism is primarily concerned with ethics and the pursuit of a happy life. Epicurus emphasized the importance of individual well-being, asserting that the ultimate goal of life is to achieve tranquility and freedom from mental and physical pain (ataraxia and aponia). Unlike hedonism in its popular sense, Epicureanism sought not excessive pleasure but rather the avoidance of unnecessary desires and pains.

The Tetrapharmakos: Epicurus encapsulated his ethical principles in the Tetrapharmakos, or "Four-part Remedy," which consists of four principal doctrines guiding a life of tranquility. These are:

• "Don't fear god": The divine does not interfere with human affairs.
• "Don't worry about death": Death is the end of consciousness, and there is no need to fear it.
• "What is good is easy to get": The essentials for happiness are simple and easily obtained.
• "What is terrible is easy to endure": Many feared things are not as bad as they seem, and enduring difficulties leads to greater strength.

Atomic Theory: Epicurus adopted the atomistic philosophy of Democritus, positing that all matter is composed of indivisible particles called atoms. According to Epicurus, the arrangement and motion of these atoms determine the properties of substances.

Social Contract: Epicurus advocated for a simple and self-sufficient life. He believed that communal living with like-minded individuals in a community (like "The Garden") contributed to the pursuit of happiness and tranquility. Friendships and social relationships were important to Epicurus, and he considered them essential for a pleasurable life.

Legacy: Despite being criticized by other philosophical schools, Epicureanism gained popularity in the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The Roman poet Lucretius wrote "De Rerum Natura" ("On the Nature of Things"), a didactic poem that expounded Epicurean philosophy. Epicureanism continued to influence later philosophers, and its ideas were revived during the Renaissance.

Death: Epicurus died in Athens in 270 BCE.

Epicurus's philosophy sought to provide practical guidance for individuals seeking a life of contentment and tranquility. His emphasis on the pursuit of modest pleasures, friendship, and the avoidance of unnecessary desires has left a lasting impact on ethical thought. It continues to be studied and debated in philosophical circles.