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Tag Archives: Epicurus

How Can We Make Peace With Death?

By Anya Leonard Death does not concern us,” says the fourth century BC philosopher Epicurus, “because as long as we exist, death is not here. And when it does come, we no longer exist.” Well, that’s a little easier said than done.  The reality is that on top of inevitably pushing up the daisies (life

Ten Things We Can Learn From the Ancients: How to Live Better

by Ed Whelan, Contributing Writer, Classical Wisdom The Greeks and Romans have decisively shaped Western civilization, which in turn has influenced modern global culture and society. Today, we can still learn from their teachings and thought. They were interested in the same things as we are, such as happiness, freedom, and well-being. Graeco-Roman civilization can

Lucretius’ Controversial Epic: On the Nature of Things

by Ed Whelan, Contributing Writer, Classical Wisdom It was one of the most controversial poems ever written. It is a remarkable, philosophical epic written in beautiful language, yet it is also much more. On the Nature of Things by Lucretius was a key text for the many followers of Epicureanism in the Roman Empire, and

Epicurus and the Philosophy of Pleasure

by Kevin Blood “Stranger, you would do good to stay awhile, for here the highest good is pleasure…” According to Seneca the Younger, these words could be seen at the entrance to the philosopher Epicurus’ garden in Athens. It was a place of seclusion, where, with a small group of friends, Epicurus taught and lived

Is there such a thing as FREE WILL?

And if not, what are the consequences?  It quickly became a spirited debate… after all, there is a lot on the line and it’s certainly not a point to be conceded without a fight.  We were discussing the concept of free will… and whether we have it… or not.  My interlocutor was steadfast and impassioned.