Epicurus
Throughout the history of mankind there have been many great thinkers
who have enlightened us with their wisdom and innovative ideas. One of
these great thinkers and one whom I admire much is the Greek Philosopher
Epicurus. Epicurus believed that the ultimate goal in life was to obtain
happiness. To Epicurus obtaining happiness is simple. A person needs
only three things in his or her life to reach ultimate contentment and
serenity. These three necessities are friendship, knowledge, and an
honorable and moderate life. For quite some time now, and even before I
was introduced to epicurean philosophy, I have followed these simple
guidelines to happiness. Below I will discuss how and why each of these
things are extremely important and vital to my personal happiness.
Growing up, I didn’t have any relatives who were in my age range. Most of my time wasn’t spent playing innocently and carelessly with other children. In fact, most of my time was spent listening attentively as the adults in my family discussed issues which were probably far too mature for my ears and watching television and movies. From these two mediums, I learned much about the world. I gained knowledge of domestic and social issues through the adults in my family. Through television and movies I became aware of a world outside of my own. I became cultured at a very young age.
As I grew older I began questioning many of the things I learned in my childhood. I began sort of a re-teaching process. I started to formulate my own opinions and my own ideology and I started to become who I am today. Knowledge has allowed me to take control of who I am and who I will become. It has unchained my mind from ignorance, it has allowed me freedom in choosing and creating my destiny and given me some happiness.
Secondly, Epicurus says that happiness can be obtained through a moderate and...
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