The Hellenistic Age Podcast 044: Hellenistic Philosophy - Epicurus & Epicureanism
May 3, 2020
Dive into the fascinating world of Epicureanism, where pleasure and the avoidance of pain are at the forefront. Discover how Epicurus, from his humble beginnings, established a community centered on egalitarian learning. Unravel the concepts of atoms and the clinamen, and how they relate to free will. Challenge misconceptions about hedonism while exploring the Epicurean views on truth, death, and the divine, revealing a philosophy that celebrates a life of sensory experiences and kindness.
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Epicurus' Egalitarian Garden
- Epicurus founded the Garden in Athens, a unique libertarian community for shared philosophical growth and lifestyle.
- The Garden welcomed women and slaves equally, fostering a rare, egalitarian philosophical circle for its time.
Pleasure as Absence of Pain
- Epicurean pleasure means absence of pain, both physical and mental, not indulgence in excess.
- Enjoy simple luxuries moderately; seek balance rather than overindulgence to avoid distress.
Senses as Basis of Truth
- Epicurus trusted senses as the foundation of knowledge; all sensations are inherently true.
- Errors come from wrong interpretation, not faulty perception, countering Platonic skepticism of senses.
