Johnathan Bi Withdrawal vs. Political Action | Katharina Volk on Roman Epicureanism
Sep 6, 2024
Katharina Volk, a professor and author specializing in Roman philosophy and literature, delves into the intricate world of Roman Epicureanism. She explores the tension between personal pleasure and political involvement, highlighting how Epicurean ideals affected ancient senators. The discussion touches on Atticus's life as a case study of balancing loyalties with political influence, while also considering how Epicureanism informs modern views on life, death, and civic duties. Volk's insights reveal the complex relationship between friendship, ambition, and moral choices in ancient Rome.
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Epicureanism's Core Pleasure Concept
- Epicureanism teaches that the highest good is pleasure, specifically the absence of pain and mental disturbance.
- This philosophy embraces a minimalist view of pleasure, focusing on tranquility over indulgence.
Epicureanism Advocates Withdrawal
- Epicureanism promotes withdrawal from political life to avoid the headaches and dangers it brings.
- It values simple living, self-sufficiency, and enjoying friendship with like-minded people instead of public glory.
Epicureanism and Friendship Contradiction
- Friendship is instrumental to pleasure in Epicureanism but is not straightforwardly considered pleasure itself.
- This raises questions about whether true friendship fits into Epicurean philosophy or undermines its principle of one highest good.