What is Epicureanism?

Epicureanism is a system of philosophy based upon the teachings of the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus, founded around 307 BC. Epicurus’s philosophy combines a physics based on an atomistic materialism with a rational hedonistic ethics that emphasizes moderation of desires and cultivation of friendships. His world-view is an optimistic one that stresses that philosophy can liberate one from fears of death and the supernatural, and can teach us how to find happiness in almost any situation.

Stoicism and Epicurean Lifestyle In Modern Times 

Using the juxtaposition of Einstein vs. Bohr and extracting the ancient philosophies of Stoicism and Epicurean lifestyle in there place we have an incredibly engaging and thrilling template for a conversation that touches on key contemporary political debates:

Below are personally selected Epicurean quotes and view points on the following topics from my readings of various text:  

1. Environment (Ex. Resource Extraction/Energy Policy)

“Life unnoticed but not alone instead in a community of painlessness. Friendship is important because it can insure future pains are minimal-manageable, allowing the condition for limited mental disturbance to flourish.

2. Emotions (Ex. Mental Health Policy)

“Mental Disturbance, anxiety, and fear is the result of ignorance and false opinion.”

3. Feelings (Ex. Fear/Terrorism Legislation) 

“Desires are either natural or empty.”

4. Security (Ex. Privacy Policy, and Monetary/Economic Policy)

“Those who seek security from political power and honor are mistaken about how best to achieve freedom from fear.”

5. Love (Ex. Relationships, Family/Friends)

“Genuine friendship requires “virtue”, and it is limited to the virtues, any action that undermine the trust of friends undermines his own.”

[youtube_sc url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=irornIAQzQY”]