Epicurean vs. Aristotelian Ethics

Definition

Epicurean ethics is a philosophical system founded by Epicurus that emphasizes the pursuit of happiness through the attainment of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. In contrast, Aristotelian ethics, rooted in the teachings of Aristotle, focuses on achieving eudaimonia or human flourishing through the development of virtues and the practice of moderation in life. These two ethical frameworks represent distinct approaches to understanding the good life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Epicurus taught that the best life is one that seeks simple pleasures and avoids unnecessary desires, leading to mental peace.
2. Aristotle emphasized the importance of virtue as a mean between extremes, suggesting that moral behavior requires balance in one's actions and desires.
3. Both philosophies offer unique views on the role of reason: Epicureans prioritize it for discerning pleasure, while Aristotelians see it as essential for achieving virtuous living.
4. Epicureanism promotes a communal aspect of pleasure, valuing friendship and social bonds as essential for happiness.
5. Aristotle's concept of practical wisdom (phronesis) guides individuals in making ethical decisions aligned with their character and circumstances.

Review Questions

• How do Epicurean ethics and Aristotelian ethics differ in their views on pleasure and happiness?
  • Epicurean ethics posits that the highest good is the pursuit of pleasure while avoiding pain, suggesting that happiness is achieved through simple pleasures and tranquility. In contrast, Aristotelian ethics defines happiness as eudaimonia, which involves living virtuously and fulfilling one's potential. While both philosophies value happiness, they diverge in their methods for achieving it: Epicureans focus on sensory pleasures, while Aristotelians emphasize moral virtues and rationality.
• Discuss how each ethical framework addresses the role of virtues in achieving a good life.
  • In Aristotelian ethics, virtues are central to achieving eudaimonia; they are habits developed through practice that enable individuals to act according to reason and find balance in their lives. Conversely, Epicurean ethics does not emphasize virtues in the same way but instead suggests that virtuous behavior can lead to greater pleasure and fewer disturbances. Thus, while both approaches consider virtues important, they do so within different contexts: one as foundational for ethical living and the other as supportive in attaining pleasure.
• Evaluate how the contrasting views on community and social relationships influence Epicurean and Aristotelian ethical theories.
  • Epicurean ethics places significant value on friendship and social connections as essential components of a pleasurable life. This framework encourages individuals to seek supportive relationships that enhance happiness. On the other hand, Aristotelian ethics acknowledges community's role but emphasizes that true fulfillment comes from developing one's virtues within various social contexts. In this sense, while both philosophies recognize the importance of relationships, Epicureanism prioritizes them as direct means to pleasure, whereas Aristotelianism sees them as integral to cultivating virtues necessary for overall flourishing.

Related terms

Pleasure: In Epicureanism, pleasure is seen as the highest good, which is to be pursued carefully to ensure it leads to a tranquil and fulfilled life.

Virtue: In Aristotelian ethics, virtue refers to moral characteristics that enable individuals to achieve eudaimonia through rational activity and balance.

Eudaimonia: Eudaimonia is often translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing,' and it represents the ultimate goal of Aristotelian ethics, achieved through a life of virtue.