So in the previous post I mentioned a Socratic school of thought called called Cyrenaic. This school died out and was replaced by Epicureanism. Epicureanism has similar idea and principles to Hedonism, but they have some very important differences. I thought for this post I would discus the differences.
Epicureanism
Epicureanism is a system of Philosophy based upon the ideas of Epicurus.Epicureanists believe that the greats good is to seek modest pleasures to obtain a state of tranquility and freedom of fear. These, as well as the avoidance and absence of bodily pain through knowledge of the world and the limitations of our desires.
The combination of these two states are supposed to produce happiness on the highest form. (Epicureanism 2012; Encyclopædia Britannica Online)
Hedonism vs. Epicureanism
Although some of the principle ideas of Epicureanism are similar to those of Hedonism, and Epicureanism is a form of Hedonism; there are differences.
Hedonism- is " pleasure in itself is good. Pleasure refers to positively enjoyable experiences or sensations, not just the absence of pain."
Epicureanism- is the view that pleasure is obtained by knowledge, positive relationships (e.g. friendships), living a virtuous life. Pleasure is obtaining from bodily desires (such as sex). Epicureanists believe that you should not eat rich foods because it could lead to later dissatisfaction.
However, Epicureanisms social ethics that have survived.
References
1. Epicureanism 2012; Encyclopædia Britannica Online; Retrieved 10 April; 2012;http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/189732/Epicureanism
References
1. Epicureanism 2012; Encyclopædia Britannica Online; Retrieved 10 April; 2012;http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/189732/Epicureanism
I am glad you are taking this subject on at it's philosophical point. I think if you really look into hedonism, you will find that hedonism makes sense and can be adaptable lifestyle that can also have an ethical side to it. If pleasure is good and pain is bad, then you will seek pleasure as long as you are not directly causing pain to others. It makes more sense than being obligated to live in servitude to some other moral obligation that can only causes you pain, stress, anguish, etc.
ReplyDeleteThis last line (to me) makes no sense: "However, Epicureanisms social ethics that have survived." (Is there a verb missing??)
ReplyDeleteIs this what is intended??: However, IT IS Epicureanism's social ethics that have survived.