Epicureanism vs. Stoicism: A Clear Comparison

Reading through Stoic literature, we come across many references to Epicureanism. I thought it would be useful to delve deeper into and how it compares to Stoicism.

What is Epicureanism?

Epicureanism is a Hellenistic philosophy founded by Epicurus (341–270 BCE) that teaches the pursuit of pleasure (ataraxia, or tranquility) through moderation, friendship, and the elimination of irrational fears. Unlike modern hedonism, Epicureanism is not about indulgence but about achieving a peaceful, joyful life by minimizing pain and unnecessary desires.

Key Idea: "Pleasure is the absence of suffering."

Core Principles of Epicureanism

The Goal: Ataraxia (Tranquility)

Happiness comes from absence of physical pain (aponia) and mental distress (ataraxia).
"Pleasure is the absence of suffering." —Epicurus

The Tetrapharmakos ("Fourfold Cure")

Epicurus’ remedy for anxiety:

Don’t fear the gods (they don’t interfere with humans).
Don’t fear death (it’s nothingness—no sensation).
What is good is easy to get (simple pleasures suffice).
What is painful is easy to endure (if severe, it’s brief; if long, it’s bearable).

Types of Desires

Natural & Necessary: Food, shelter, friendship (pursue these).
Natural but Unnecessary: Fancy meals, luxury (limit these).
Vain & Empty: Fame, power, wealth (avoid these).

Friendship (Philia)

The highest joy comes from trusted friendships, not superficial socializing.
"Of all the means to happiness, friendship is the most essential."

Materialism & Atomism

Reality is made of atoms (no afterlife, divine judgment, or fate).
Frees followers from superstition and fear of death.

Common Misconceptions

❌ "Epicureans are hedonists."

Truth: They reject excess (e.g., gluttony, lust) as destabilizing.

❌ "They ignore virtue."

Truth: Virtue (prudence, honesty) is a means to tranquility, not an end.

❌ "They’re selfish."

Truth: Friendship and kindness are central to their joy.

Modern Applications of Epicureanism

Minimalism

Focus on enough, not excess.

Mindfulness

Savor simple pleasures (a meal, a sunset).

Science Over Superstition

Seek natural explanations, not fear-based myths.

Stress Reduction

Let go of vain ambitions (status, wealth-chasing).

5 Examples of Differing Thought

On Wealth

Epicurean: "Money is only useful if it brings peace. Hoarding causes stress."
Stoic: "Wealth is indifferent—only how you use it matters."

On Pain

Epicurean: "Avoid physical pain at all costs."
Stoic: "Pain is a chance to practice endurance."

On Public Life

Epicurean: "Politics is chaotic—live privately with friends."
Stoic: "Serve society justly, even if it’s hard."

On Pleasure

Epicurean: "Enjoy simple meals, but avoid gluttony."
Stoic: "Pleasure is irrelevant—eat only to sustain virtue."

On Death

Epicurean: "Why fear death? When it comes, you won’t exist."
Stoic: "Live fully now—death is natural."

5 Stoic Quotes Critiquing Epicureanism

"The Epicurean says, 'Eat, drink, for tomorrow we die.' But where is the virtue in that?"—Meditations 9.39
"Epicurus reduces philosophy to a mere comfort—as if wisdom were a warm blanket!"—Letters 13.16
"The Epicureans say pleasure is the goal. Then why do they still suffer?"—Discourses 2.20
"To seek pleasure as the highest good is to make yourself a slave to it."—Lectures 7
"Epicurus teaches us to hide from life’s storms. But Stoics teach us to sail through them."—On Ends 2.81

Criticisms of Epicureanism

Passivity: Critics (like Stoics) argue it avoids civic duty.
Over-simplification: Not all pain is avoidable (e.g., chronic illness).
Isolation: Retreating from society can limit growth.

As you can see, there are some parallels to Stoicism, and some key differences as well.

Did you convert to an Epicurean? Is your Stoic conviction stronger than ever?

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