Epicurus (341-270 BCE) was an ancient Greek philosopher who founded the Epicurean school of philosophy in Athens. Born on the island of Samos, he developed a philosophy centered on attaining a tranquil life free from fear and pain. He believed that this state of "ataraxia" was the key to happiness. Epicurus's teachings emphasized simple living, the avoidance of unnecessary desires, and the importance of friendship. Contrary to popular misconceptions, Epicureanism didn't advocate for hedonistic indulgence, but rather for prudence and the limitation of desires to achieve lasting contentment.
Epicurus was an empiricist, believing that knowledge comes from sensory experience. He also adopted the atomistic theories of Democritus, explaining natural phenomena as the result of atoms moving in empty space. However, Epicurus introduced the concept of "atomic swerve," suggesting that atoms could randomly deviate, allowing for free will in an otherwise deterministic universe. He also argued that there was nothing to fear from Gods, nothing awaiting in death; good can be obtained, evil can be endured. Epicurus's philosophy gained considerable popularity and communities of Epicureans flourished for centuries after his death. Although much of his written work is lost, his ideas continue to influence discussions on ethics, happiness, and the nature of reality.
