Life of Leisure

To judge a historical philosopher from the past is very unfair. The person evaluating knows the outcome of the philosophies. Related scientific understanding has since developed, along with an abundance of information. The culture and every day life has changed through time and geologically. Also the government system has changed. None the less I attended to reflect on Epicurus' philosophies, ideas, and theories.

Epicurus wrote, "We must also reflect that as far as desires are concerned, some are natural while others have no foundation; and that of the natural, some are necessary as well as natural and some are natural only." This illustrates his main philosophy, to do things only for pleasure and avoid all things that may cause pain. I feel this is extreme. For example, if someone was in a fire I would rescue that person despite the pain I may attain from the flames. Epicurus believes that pleasure is a queried through fulfilling desires. There are three types of desires natural necessary, natural unnecessary, and unnatural vain. He thinks natural necessary desires, such as food and sleep are the best kind to receive pleasure. On the other had unnatural vain desires, such as brand name clothes, can never be completely fulfilled so a person should ignore those wants. I agree with this, because it is best not to want things you cannot have. Natural unnecessary desires are considered avoidable. I do not see it as necessary to avoid, but perhaps acquired in moderation.

Epicurus says that justice is, "neither to harm nor be harmed." He believes communities establish justice to protect and to be able to function. People should follow to avoid pain of punishment and pain from fear of punishment. Also that a person should avoid vain desires of great wealth, or political power so there is no need. I agree with this if it is not a corrupted society. It is my opinion that justice should be limited to keeping order. This way religion is not incorporated, and everyone is free to believe in their own way.

Epicurus said, "Of all things that wisdom tells us can insure happiness throughout life, by far the most important is the acquisition of friends." Epicurus thinks friendship is valuable, because it is the greatest means of attaining pleasure. I think the best way to attain pleasure is by helping someone for nothing in return except for the feeling you get inside.