Epicureanism and Stoicism are two of the most influential schools of thought in the history of philosophy. Though they have some similarities, they also have several significant differences.
Epicureanism is a philosophy founded by Epicurus in the 4th century BCE. It stresses the importance of pleasure and happiness and teaches that the best way to achieve these things is by living a simple life and avoiding unnecessary stress.
On the other hand, Stoicism is a philosophy founded by Zeno of Citium in the 3rd century BCE. It teaches that the best way to achieve happiness is by living in harmony with nature and reason and by accepting what is unfavorable and trying to take it in stride.
But what are the main differences between them? Continue reading to learn more.
1. Epicureans vs. Stoics: View On Pleasure
One of the main differences between Epicureanism and Stoicism is their view of pleasure. Epicurus believed that pleasure was the highest good and that the best way to achieve it was by living a simple life. He believed that luxuries and unnecessary possessions only led to more stress and that it was best to avoid them.
Zeno, on the other hand, believed that pleasure was not the highest good. Instead, he believed that the best way to achieve happiness was by living in harmony with nature and reason. He thought it was necessary to accept what was unfavorable and try to take it in stride.
2. Epicureans vs. Stoics: View On Emotions
The Stoics believed emotions were natural and normal but should be controlled. They believed that emotions should not be allowed to control a person, but rather a person should be in control of their emotions. The Stoics believed emotions could lead to irrational and destructive behavior if they were not kept in check.
The Epicureans, on the other hand, believed that emotions were not only natural and normal but also good and necessary. They believed that emotions were a valuable source of information and that they should be listened to. The Epicureans believed that emotions could lead to wisdom and understanding if they were allowed to flow freely.
3. Epicureans vs. Stoics: View On Death
When it comes to the question of death, the Epicureans and the Stoics take very different approaches.
For the Epicureans, death is simply the end of a person’s existence. There is no afterlife, no reincarnation, and no judgment. This means that death is not something to be feared, as there is nothing to be afraid of. Instead, the Epicureans believe death should be embraced as a natural and inevitable part of life.
The Stoics, on the other hand, believe that death is not the end of a person’s existence. Instead, they believe in the immortality of the soul. This means that death is not something to be feared, as it is simply a transition to a different state of existence.
Final Thoughts
So, which view is correct? There is no easy answer. The principles of epicureans vs stoics have their own merits and drawbacks. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide which view makes more sense to them.
Now that you know how they differ, it’s time to know how they are the same. If you want to learn more about it, check out our guide to the similarities between Stoics and Epicureans.
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Brian formed Living By Examplealongside Cynthia after working for two decades alongside international institutions for humanitarian aids and other efforts worldwide, may it be catastrophes made by men or nature. Brian built Living By Examplewith the hopes of bringing more cultural diversity across the internet.
He primarily writes amazing stories about cultures and shares different ideals with our readers through his stories. He believes that people empowerment is important especially during these trying times.
