Epicurus Quotes
A collection of quotes by Epicurus.
Epicurus (341 BCE - 270 BCE) was an ancient Greek philosopher, born on the island of Samos. He is best known for founding the school of philosophy called Epicureanism, which advocated for living a happy, peaceful, and fulfilled life.
Epicurus' ideas were centered around the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain, but not in the hedonistic sense. He believed that true pleasure came from attaining tranquility and contentment through the moderation of desires, avoidance of unnecessary suffering, and the cultivation of meaningful relationships.
Central to his philosophy was the belief that there was nothing to fear in death, as it equated to the end of consciousness and therefore the end of all suffering. Epicurus emphasized the importance of rationality and critical thinking, encouraging individuals to question societal norms, religious beliefs, and fear-induced superstitions.
Epicurus established his philosophical school, known as the Garden, in Athens. It served as a supportive community where his students could practice self-sufficiency and engage in philosophical discussions. The school attracted many followers during his lifetime and beyond, as his teachings continued to influence later philosophers and intellectuals.
Though only a fraction of his original writings survived, Epicurus left behind numerous letters and works, including "On the Nature of Things," which detailed his philosophical views. His ideas challenged widely accepted doctrines and sought to guide individuals towards a more serene and fulfilling existence.
