reanism. Epicureanism is a philosophy that teaches happiness, removal, reason, inner-life concentration, piety, and prudence. He and his followers of his private Athenian school desired removal from the outside world. Simply sitting and analyzing inner life was a part of Epicureanism. Epicurus believed that contemplative life could be achieved in this world, and not in some heavenly city. He taught a definite set of morals. In Epicurean philosophy the supreme sin is inhumanity. Epicurus taught that humans should pursue pleasure. Removal from everyday common life and the burdens of it was a vital part of Epicureanism. According to the teachings, humans should have all disturbances absent as well as the everyday turbulence, passions, and desires of ordinary human existence. ( Penichas p. 87). Fear was not acceptable. Epicurus taught not to fear death, but to embrace it as a part of life. He did not believe in a search for afterlife. Epicurus also believed that humans in general are in constant fear of misery or pain. He taught not to fear anything that isnt necessary to living. The teachings also state that the idea of fearing gods is unacceptable. However, Epicurus did not defy the gods. He taught them as being divine, incorruptible creatures that were more of a set of morals for humans to lead their lives by. His attitude was that man should worship the gods, not fear them. Epicurus vehemently defied beliefs in astral religions. He believed the stars to be as they are; stars. Epicureanism holds great value in reason. Simple, but effective thought was seen as ideal. Fellowship was also extremely important. Women, men, and slaves were all welcome to his school. Friendship, loyalty, and happiness amongst friends was all a part of an ideal life to Epicurus. With contemplative life seen as possible in this world, mans contributions to each other were evident and extremely valuable. The meaning of life to Epicurus was p...
