Epicurus
Epicurus
Epicuruswas an ancient Greek philosopher as well as the founder of the school of philosophy called Epicureanism. Only a few fragments and letters of Epicurus's 300 written works remain. Much of what is known about Epicurean philosophy derives from later followers and commentators...
NationalityGreek
ProfessionPhilosopher
lying perspective fearless
It is better for you to be free of fear lying upon a pallet, than to have a golden couch and a rich table and be full of trouble.
philosophical loss envy
Riches do not exhilarate us so much with their possession as they torment us with their loss.
absent pursue seeing
We must, therefore, pursue the things that make for happiness, seeing that when happiness is present, we have everything; but when it is absent, we do everything to possess it.
fate night tyrants
A strict belief in fate is the worst of slavery, imposing upon our necks an everlasting lord and tyrant, whom we are to stand in awe of night and day.
order joy body
Be moderate in order to taste the joys of life in abundance.
philosophy real use
Luxurious food and drinks, in no way protect you from harm. Wealth beyond what is natural, is no more use than an overflowing container. Real value is not generated by theaters, and baths, perfumes or ointments, but by philosophy.
needs helping desirable
All friendship is desirable in itself, though it starts from the need of help
wise wisdom philosophical
The misfortune of the wise is better than the prosperity of the fool.
confidence power men
It is folly for a man to pray to the gods for that which he has the power to obtain by himself.
future men he-man
The man least dependent upon the morrow goes to meet the morrow most cheerfully.
religious men long
Why should I fear death? If I am, then death is not. If Death is, then I am not. Why should I fear that which can only exist when I do not? Long time men lay oppressed with slavish fear. Religious tyranny did domineer. At length the mighty one of Greece Began to assent the liberty of man.
drinking sea dancing
The pleasant life is not produced by continual drinking and dancing, nor sexual intercourse, nor rare dishes of sea food and other delicacies of a luxurious table. On the contrary, it is produced by sober reasoning which examines the motives for every choice and avoidance, driving away beliefs which are the source of mental disturbances.
philosophy philosophical gains
In a philosophical dispute, he gains most who is defeated, since he learns most.
pain choices soul
Pleasure is the first good. It is the beginning of every choice and every aversion. It is the absence of pain in the body and of troubles in the soul.