Perennial Wisdom
How to Live (and Die) Like an Epicurean - The Philosophy of Pleasure
Jan 25, 2025
Dive into the world of Epicureanism, where pleasure is the key to a fulfilling life. Discover the importance of moderation and the value of meaningful friendships. Delve into reflections on life and death from Epicurus and Seneca, revealing how embracing mortality enriches the experience of living. These timeless philosophies offer modern insights on joy and dying well, merging ancient wisdom with contemporary ideals.
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Quick takeaways
- Understanding and practicing the art of having enough fosters joy in simplicity and strengthens social connections through generosity.
- Epicurus emphasizes the importance of friendship, arguing that true relationships built on trust enhance happiness and alleviate anxiety.
Deep dives
The Art of Having Enough
Epicurus teaches that happiness relies on understanding and practicing the art of having enough. He argues that most people already possess what is necessary for a content life, which includes basic needs like food, water, and shelter. Anything beyond these essentials is viewed as natural but not necessary and, ultimately, forms an excess that doesn’t serve a useful purpose. By embracing this philosophy, individuals can find joy in simplicity, become more generous, and strengthen their social connections, as they feel less need to hoard unnecessary possessions.
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