> These Epicurean virtues are in short supply these days.
Philosophers also have their flaws. Hedonism as seen by Epicurus has been taken to an extreme in this modern world and likely back then too. People may live too much of a Kierkegaard “aesthetic” life rather than an “ethical” one. This of course is the main argument that they can choose either/or. We constantly hear of people refer to this pursuit of happiness or aestheticism through the hedonic treadmill that one can’t get off. Instead their happiness remains at a baseline regardless of accomplishments throughout life.
Seeking pleasure and avoiding pain is not a realistic way to live. The existentialists all argue this as quoted at the beginning with perhaps a misunderstood Nietzsche idea of the last man and the “overman” who overcomes the wasteland by rejecting excess pleasure and embracing pain as a source of strength. The last man being the end of man due to complacency who only seeks pleasure.
Overall I quite enjoyed this article, it feels as if the author is trying to defend Epicurus in the sense that he is wildly misunderstood. He looks to have a book on literary gardens that looks quite interesting. Will probably pick it up.
I don't think Epicurus would recognize the hedonistic values ascribed to him today. He was not a well man for the latter part of his life, and his idea of a life without pain was one where he is content with what he has and is surrounded by friends. In his letters, this is the theme he always returns to.
In fact, of the philosophers we know from that era, Epicurus was the only one who wasn't an aristocrat. He came from a middle class background and he at his most "hedonistic" probably would have thrown a positively simple party compared to an average evening at Plato's.
Philosophers also have their flaws. Hedonism as seen by Epicurus has been taken to an extreme in this modern world and likely back then too. People may live too much of a Kierkegaard “aesthetic” life rather than an “ethical” one. This of course is the main argument that they can choose either/or. We constantly hear of people refer to this pursuit of happiness or aestheticism through the hedonic treadmill that one can’t get off. Instead their happiness remains at a baseline regardless of accomplishments throughout life.
Seeking pleasure and avoiding pain is not a realistic way to live. The existentialists all argue this as quoted at the beginning with perhaps a misunderstood Nietzsche idea of the last man and the “overman” who overcomes the wasteland by rejecting excess pleasure and embracing pain as a source of strength. The last man being the end of man due to complacency who only seeks pleasure.
Overall I quite enjoyed this article, it feels as if the author is trying to defend Epicurus in the sense that he is wildly misunderstood. He looks to have a book on literary gardens that looks quite interesting. Will probably pick it up.