DID YOU KNOW…
Forget Feasts: Epicurus's True 'Pleasure' Was a Quiet Life
Did you know that despite its popular association with lavish indulgence, the ancient philosophy of Epicureanism actually advocated for moderation, tranquility, and the absence of pain as the path to true happiness? Epicurus himself famously recommended a simple diet of bread, cheese, and water.
Epicurus established his philosophical school, 'The Garden,' in Athens, uniquely opening its doors to women and even slaves. He argued that genuine pleasure, or *ataraxia*, was not found in physical gratification but in a state of mental serenity and freedom from fear, achieved through intellectual pursuits, friendship, and self-sufficiency. This calm state, he believed, allowed one to appreciate life's simple joys without succumbing to desires that often lead to suffering or discomfort. Far from hedonism, Epicureanism prioritized enduring contentment over fleeting thrills.
Love discovering things like this?
A new fact every day with photos, on the free app.