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The Great Books

Episode 356: The Letters of Epicurus

Jan 21, 2025
Join Spencer Klavan, associate editor of the Claremont Review of Books and author of 'How to Save the West,' as he explores the profound letters of Epicurus. Discover the impact of Epicureanism on contemporary thought and the misconceptions surrounding it. Klavan discusses Philodemus's role in preserving these philosophies and how modern technology is uncovering lost texts. The conversation also touches on the philosophical debates between Adams and Jefferson, revealing the relevance of Epicurus's teachings on happiness and morality today.
36:12

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Epicurus's letters reveal a profound connection between his atomistic philosophy and modern existential beliefs, reshaping our understanding of reality's material basis.
  • The ethical framework proposed by Epicurus emphasizes achieving serenity through the pursuit of moral virtues, challenging conventional notions of hedonism and immediate gratification.

Deep dives

The Relevance of Epicurus Today

Epicurus's letters, once dismissed in antiquity, have gained new significance in contemporary thought. The idea that we are all Epicureans reflects how fundamental concepts from his philosophy, such as atomism, permeate modern understanding of the physical world. This philosophical framework, connecting ethics with material existence, suggests that many of our current beliefs are rooted in Epicurean ideas, even if they go unrecognized. Understanding these letters is essential for grasping the foundations of many modern perspectives, as they provide insight into the relationship between our beliefs and the lived experience.

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