Ancient Greek philosophy is a diverse subject containing various perspectives on life. While some of them did not pass the test of time and were left as relics of the past, others remained relevant to the present day and had a massive influence on the development of philosophical thought. Despite being almost opposite, schools of Stoicism and Epicureanism were some of the most prominent and influential teachings of the Ancient world. Therefore, the adepts of Epicurus and the founder of Stoicism, Zeno of Citium, often had debates to gain an insight into each of the philosophies.
The debates between the two schools of philosophy shared a few similarities, such as the rejection of the fear of death and living a virtuous life. However, it is quite evident that Stoicism and Epicureanism have a different understanding of what living a virtuous life means. For example, one of the virtues considered crucial for Stoics was being involved in politics and in the life of the community or society (Stephens 26). On the contrary, Epicureans state that active participation in state politics does not necessarily make a person happy, which is one of the main premises of Epicure’s teaching.
Furthermore, Stoics view virtue as being active, committing to one’s duty, and contributing to society. Epicureans would counter such a claim by stating that such strategy and behavior would not make a person happy. Instead, it can make one unhappy; therefore, Epicureans find value and virtue in seeking peace and harmony within regular meetings with a small circle of friends. In case one does not have an opportunity to spend time with friends regularly, a simple life is free of concerns about what is going on in politics and society. The pursuit of power, influence, or money does not fulfill the most basic need of a person, which is happiness. Therefore, Epicureans sought happiness within themselves and in daily activities that would make a difference for themselves and their small communities of friends.
Finally, virtue and living virtuously have different intentions for Stoics and Epicureans. Whereas Stoics perceive virtues as the highest good that is self-sufficient, Epicureans view virtue as a means of achieving something a person truly desires (Cicero 476). Hence, the intentions behind the virtuous life of Stoics and Epicureans are different. Moderation in life is an important aspect of both philosophies, but for Stoics, it may act as a final goal itself.
The debates between Stoics and Epicureans were prominent in Ancient Greek society. This was reflected even in Christianity, as in Acts 17:16-34, Paul visits Athens, where he is met by a group of Stoic and Epicurean philosophers. Paul’s views on Christianity had found reflection in the minds of Ancient Greeks as he managed to integrate the religious life in Athens into his speech and address that God is not a man-made idol, but He is the creator and people are all his offspring (Act 17: 29).
For Christians, both Epicurean and Stoic philosophies are valid as they promote a life of devotion and moderation. Not indulging in anything that brings pleasure in the short term but causes suffering in the aftermath is one of the key teachings of Epicureanism. At the same time, Stoicism promotes devotion to the virtue of the highest good. This resonates with the Christian idea of living free of sin according to God’s teaching.
Works Cited
Acts 17:16-34
Cicero, Epicurus. “Epicureanism.” Oxford Handbook of Epicurus and Epicureanism (2020): 476.
Stephens, William O. “The Stoics and their Philosophical System.” The Routledge Handbook of Hellenistic Philosophy. Routledge, 2020. 25-37.