What are the differences between Epicureanism and Stoicism?

Answer 1

My first reaction was that the two are entirely dissimilar (historically they were arch-enemies). But on reflection, it seems that they have more in common than I first apprehended. They both encourage a kind of rational approach to problems... particular as a control to passions which might cause problems if given free reign.

The differences lie primarily in overarching goals and some of their postulates.

Epicureans were staunch materialists. They had no concern for anything supernatural; there was no higher power or purpose to life. Instead the only worthwhile goal was to please yourself as much as humanly possible.

Many of the stoics, on the other hand, did believe in a greater force (whether it was ethics, society, or the Divine). They felt that what was good and what was pleasurable were not only NOT identical... sometimes they were direct opposites. They focused more on avoiding suffering than seeking pleasure, and saw life as a series of trials and opportunities for self-development and improvement.

Even without the supernatural, I think the stoics would say that they were crafting themselves to overcome whatever greater challenges may arise later in life. An epicurean would probably say that by denying themselves pleasure there was no POINT to living a long life.

So it goes.

Answer 2

To the stoics, understanding divine purpose
(of loGos) and conforming to it was considered virtue and it alone brought happiness; thus the goal of life was to understand and conform to the divine plan and exist in agreement with nature willingly, fulfilling ones duty to the greater whole.
The stoic will always performe their human duty to the extent that they are able, and will behave as a rational human being.

There are many similarities between the stoics and the epicureans, they both believed that little was up to mankind, much being outside his ability to understand or impact. The epicureans however stressed through the "4 part cure" ( one shouldn't fear god, or death, what is good is easy to come by, and what is terrible is easy to endure. ) an ideology that condoned a separation from life and its pursuits, whereas the Stoic will not withdraw from society, Being compelled to fulfill his duty.

Answer 3

Epicureanism is a philosophy based on taste, which is why we call gourmands Epicures. Eat, Drink and be Merry, is typical of Epicures. For Jews the term Epikoros is derogatory, denoting a Jew who has sold out to goyishe (gentile) standards.

Stoics, on the other hand, based their philosophy on acceptance and duty. Sh** happens! is a stoic phrase. The Stoic was to present the same face to the world in all circumstances. This was exemplified in Seneca opening his veins when he found life and Roman society no longer bearable, "O Tempus, O Mores". It was also in the slave Epictetus' saying, "Look today on the face of your child, and say tomorrow it will die."

Answer 4

epicureanism is a form of hedonism - living life for the pleasures that is can offer.

stoicism is living life with a virtuous attitude no matter what experiences you are facing.

Answer 5

Both are forms of materialism. However, an epicurian would seek to celebrate the finitude and contingency of human existence, while the stoic would seek to endure it.

Answer 6

Hi there, just wanted to say, I enjoyed this discussion. inspiring answers

Answer 7

Very helpful!

Answer 8

Wow, thanks! Just what I was looking for. I looked for the answers on other websites but I couldn't find them.

Answer 9

i couldnt begin to explain