Epicureanism
Epicureanism is an ancient idea founded around 307 BC based upon the teachings of the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus. Epicureanism was originally a challenge to Platonism. Later its main opponent became Stoicism. Epicurus was a philosopher who was ahead of his time. He accepted people no matter their race or social class. He gained a great number of followers. His materialism led him to a general attack on superstition and divine intervention. Following the Cyrenaic philosopher Aristippus, Epicurus believed that the greatest good was to seek modest, sustainable pleasure in the form of a state of ataraxia (tranquility and freedom from fear) and aponia (the absence of bodily pain) through knowledge of the workings of the world and limiting desires. The combination of these two states constitutes happiness in its highest form. Correspondingly, Epicurus and his followers shunned politics because it could lead to frustrations and ambitions which can directly conflict with the Epicurean pursuit for peace of mind and virtues.
How Epicureanism fits into our world.
In this Ted talk, Marc Nelson talks about how Epicurus is the original milennial. He explains that the ideas of Epicureanism may have even more value in today's world than they did back then. Epicurus believed that the key to a happy life is serenity. Serenity is achieved by less stress and anxiety. Marc explains that today, there is much societal pressure to make lots of money. Based on the ideas of Epicurus, more money means less serenity. The key to being happier is to make less money and spend more time doing things that you love. Money only creates more stress and anxiety. It seems to be human nature that the more you have the more you want.
Today, it costs less for basic human needs than ever before. So, why is there even more pressure to make more money. We have free water fountains, cheap food, affordable clothes, yet people spend more time working and are expected to always choose the higher paying job over something they might enjoy more. Should we be working less and spending more time on activities that give our life meaning? should we be more grateful for the things that we have and stop wanting the things that wed do not? Epicurus would say yes. 
An invitation from History: To be free from the fear of not having enough money or losing the nice things you have must be a liberating feeling. Is it practical? Would you do it?
Personal Application
I will be the first to admit that I am easily caught up in the greediness of today's society. I want nice things. I want a good job. I want I want I want! However, after really pondering the idea of epicureanism, I am going to try to apply Epicurus' ideas to my own life. I am going to try to spend more time doing things that give my life meaning, and that I am passionate about. This is the perfect time to find activities such as these as I am quarantined and have nothing else to do. I hope that these ideas prove to add a little more serenity and happiness in my life.
Quiz:
What is ataraxia?
How did Epicurus and his followers view politics?
What did Epicurus believe was the "key to a happy life"?
Discussion Questions:
Do you agree that less money equals more happiness?
Is epicureanism something you would be willing to try? why or why not?
Do you think human nature or society causes greediness and the want of money/materialistic things?
Sources:
One could do a lot worse than follow the example of Epicurus, Thomas Jefferson's favorite philosopher.
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