Question

How did Epicurus define pleasure (ἡδονή)? What were his views on happiness and ataraxia (ἀταραξία)? What does 'ataraxia' mean?

Answer 1

Epicurus was an ancient Greek philosopher who lived from 341 BCE to 270 BCE. He founded the philosophical school known as Epicureanism, which emphasized the pursuit of pleasure, tranquility, and the avoidance of pain as the primary goals of life. The concept of pleasure (ἡδονή) was central to Epicurus' philosophy, but his understanding of pleasure was quite distinct from common notions of indulgence or hedonism.

1. Pleasure (ἡδονή): Epicurus defined pleasure as the absence of pain in both the body and the soul. According to him, true pleasure is not found in momentary or excessive sensory pleasures, but rather in the state of tranquility and contentment that comes from satisfying one's natural and necessary desires while minimizing unnecessary desires. He distinguished between two types of pleasure:

   a) Kinetic Pleasure (πράξεις ἡδοναί): These are the active, sensory pleasures that arise from satisfying basic physical desires, such as eating when hungry or drinking when thirsty.

   b) Katastematic Pleasure (καταστηματικαὶ ἡδοναί): These are the static, lasting pleasures that result from the absence of pain and the overall tranquility of the soul. Ataraxia (ἀταραξία) falls under this category.

2. Happiness and Ataraxia (ἀταραξία): For Epicurus, happiness (εὐδαιμονία) was the ultimate goal of life, and he believed that it could be achieved through the pursuit of ataraxia. Ataraxia is often translated as "tranquility," "peace of mind," or "freedom from disturbance." It is the state of complete mental and emotional calmness, characterized by the absence of excessive worries, anxieties, and fears.

Epicurus argued that the key to ataraxia lies in cultivating a virtuous and balanced life, where one is not overly attached to material possessions or external achievements. He believed that by seeking pleasure in the simple and natural pleasures of life, while avoiding unnecessary desires and fears, individuals could attain a state of profound inner peace and contentment.

In summary, Epicurus defined pleasure as the absence of pain in both body and soul. True happiness was seen as the state of ataraxia, achieved by living a virtuous life, satisfying natural and necessary desires, and finding contentment in simplicity and tranquility. This philosophical approach was meant to help individuals lead fulfilling lives, free from unnecessary suffering and anxiety.