Pleasure as the highest good

Definition

In Epicurean philosophy, pleasure is viewed as the ultimate goal of life, representing the highest good that one can achieve. This notion posits that the pursuit of pleasure, understood as the absence of pain and disturbance, is essential for achieving a tranquil and fulfilling existence. Central to this idea is the belief that by understanding the nature of pleasure and pain, individuals can make informed choices that lead to a happier life, free from unnecessary fears, particularly those related to death and the divine.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Epicurus emphasized that not all pleasures are equal; intellectual pleasures are considered superior to physical ones, leading to more lasting happiness.
2. Epicureans believe that understanding natural phenomena helps eliminate irrational fears of gods and death, allowing for a more pleasurable life.
3. The pursuit of simple pleasures, such as friendship and moderation, is encouraged over indulgence in excessive desires which can lead to pain.
4. Epicurus taught that achieving pleasure involves cultivating a lifestyle that minimizes pain and promotes mental tranquility rather than simply seeking sensory gratification.
5. The philosophy asserts that death should not be feared because it represents the end of sensation and consciousness; thus, it cannot be experienced as pain.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of pleasure as the highest good relate to Epicurus's views on death and fear?
  • Epicurus argues that by understanding pleasure as the highest good, one can dispel irrational fears surrounding death. He asserts that since death signifies the cessation of sensation, it cannot bring pain. Thus, focusing on pleasurable experiences during life allows individuals to live without the anxiety that often accompanies thoughts of death, enabling a tranquil existence.
• Discuss how the Epicurean view of pleasure challenges traditional beliefs about happiness and morality.
  • The Epicurean view redefines happiness by prioritizing the pursuit of pleasure over conventional moral duties. Traditional beliefs often emphasize self-denial or duty as paths to virtue. In contrast, Epicurus suggests that true morality stems from actions that maximize pleasure and minimize pain without harming others. This perspective promotes a more personal approach to ethics, focusing on individual fulfillment while recognizing communal well-being.
• Evaluate how Epicurus's materialist perspective contributes to his philosophy on pleasure as the highest good.
  • Epicurus's materialism underpins his philosophy by asserting that only physical matter exists and governs our experiences. This view allows him to argue that desires can be understood scientifically, thereby guiding individuals towards pleasures that truly contribute to happiness. By dispelling myths about divine intervention and an afterlife filled with torment, he reinforces that achieving pleasure is rooted in reality and attainable through rational thought, leading to a more fulfilled life.

Related terms

hedonism: A philosophical doctrine that suggests pleasure or happiness is the highest good and proper aim of human life.

ataraxia: A state of serene calmness and freedom from emotional disturbance or anxiety, which Epicureans believe is achievable through the pursuit of pleasure.

materialism: The belief that physical matter is the only or fundamental reality, often associated with Epicurean views about the nature of existence and the universe.