epicureanism
An ancient Greek philosopher teaches the principles of Epicureanism to students in a garden.
Noun: 1. A philosophical system or doctrine: Specifically, the system of philosophy based on the teachings of Epicurus (c. 341–270 BCE), which holds that the greatest good is to seek modest, sustainable pleasures (such as those of friendship, knowledge, and a simple life) in order to attain a state of tranquility (ataraxia) and freedom from fear (aponia), and that the gods do not interfere in human affairs. 2. (Often misunderstood as) A devotion to luxurious or refined sensual pleasures: In common, non-philosophical usage, it can refer to a lifestyle or attitude dedicated to the pursuit of fine food, drink, and other sophisticated enjoyments, though this is a simplification and, historically, a misrepresentation of the original philosophy.
- Noun (Philosophical Doctrine):
- The central tenets of Epicureanism emphasized friendship and the avoidance of pain.
- He wrote his thesis on the influence of Epicureanism on Roman poetry.
- Noun (Modern, General Usage):
- His epicureanism was evident in his expertly curated wine cellar and gourmet kitchen. (Note: Here, the lowercase 'e' is often used in the general sense.)
- Historical Context: Epicureanism was one of the major schools of Hellenistic philosophy, alongside Stoicism and Skepticism. It was a comprehensive system addressing physics (atomism), epistemology, and ethics.
- Distinction from Hedonism: While Epicureanism is a form of hedonism (identifying pleasure as the good), it is distinct in advocating for the calculated pursuit of pleasures (the absence of disturbance) over pleasures (active stimulation), and in warning against desires that lead to anxiety or pain.
- Epicurean (adjective): Pertaining to Epicurus or his philosophy. (e.g., )
- Epicurean (noun): A follower of Epicurus or, more commonly, a person with refined tastes, especially in food and drink.
- Epicure (noun): A person who cultivates a refined taste, especially in food and wine. (Derived from, but not identical to, the philosophical follower).
- (For the philosophical system): Hedonism (specifically, the Epicurean form of it).
- (For the general modern sense): Gourmandism, sybaritism, luxuriousness.
- (For the philosophical system): Asceticism, Stoicism (in its emphasis on duty and indifference to pleasure/pain).
- (For the general modern sense): Austerity, asceticism, abstemiousness.
- "Epicurean delight/feast/pleasure": A phrase used to describe something that provides great, often refined, sensual enjoyment, particularly related to food and drink.
- The multi-course tasting menu was an Epicurean delight.
An ancient Greek philosopher teaches the principles of Epicureanism to students in a garden.
- a doctrine of hedonism that was defended by several ancient Greek philosophers