Philosophy
Letter to Menoeceus: 6 key ideas
The core ideas of Letter to Menoeceus, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
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- IDEA 1 OF 6
Pleasure as absence of pain
Epicurus meant tranquillity of mind and freedom from bodily pain, not indulgence.
- IDEA 2 OF 6
Death is nothing to us
When we exist, death is not; when death is, we are not.
Fear of it is pointless.
- IDEA 3 OF 6
Simple pleasures
Bread and water give pleasure to the hungry.
Simple living makes luxuries more enjoyable.
- IDEA 4 OF 6
Classify desires
Some desires are natural and necessary, some natural but unnecessary, some empty.
Pursue the first.
- IDEA 5 OF 6
Friendship
Of all things wisdom provides for happiness, friendship is the greatest.
- IDEA 6 OF 6
Prudence
Practical wisdom is the root of all virtues and the guide to a pleasant life.
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