Epicurus emphasizes that the essential desires of food, shelter, friendship, and basic scientific knowledge are within reach for most individuals. While global inequality exists, many in wealthier nations can fulfill these fundamental needs. This realization is empowering as it suggests that the majority of joy and pleasure can be attained by meeting these basic desires. This philosophy can lead to a sense of security and contentment, allowing individuals to take risks and pursue entrepreneurial endeavors without fear of losing everything.
Over 2,000 years ago, Epicurus, a Greek philosopher, made a simple yet bold claim. The key to the good life, he said, is to pursue pleasure and avoid pain. Is it really that easy? To answer that question, we turn to Emily Austin, a professor of philosophy at Wake Forest and author of “Living for Pleasure: An Epicurean Guide to Life.”
(This episode first aired in January 2023.)