Epicureanism and Stoicism offered two influential but very different answers to one of life's oldest questions: how should we live? This course introduces the central ideas of both traditions, exploring happiness, virtue, desire, resilience and the pursuit of a good life. Participants will discover how these philosophies emerged in the ancient world and why they continue to influence contemporary discussions about wellbeing, ethics and personal fulfilment. Suitable for anyone interested in philosophy, history and practical wisdom. No previous knowledge is required.

DELIVERY MODE

Online

COURSE OUTLINE

• Introduction to Epicureanism. Greek beginnings and the “Garden of Pleasure”. The community which Epicurus envisages is one of like minded individuals studying and working together.
• Freedom from Fear. The Hedonists think that humans inflict many fears on themselves which are not necessary; the fear of death being one of them.
• Introduction to Stoicism. We will study the history of Stoicism from its Greek beginnings through Christianity and the Renaissance to our own day. The primary aim of stoicism is to achieve and maintain inner tranquility.
• Seneca: Life and Death. Seneca was a high level statesman and advisor to Nero, a position which he held for eight years, until he was accused of conspiracy and ordered to self execute (echoes of Socrates).
• Epictetus. Originally a slave belonging to the Emperor Nero, Epictetus is famous for say that one is not morally obliged to obey the “stamp on the coin” (emperor’s faces were stamped on coins).
• Marcus Aurelius. Marcus Aurelius is celebrated for the many reforms he made to the legal system of Rome, clearing away arbitrary harshness and anomalies in the civic law. He ruled in what has been called the Golden Age of Rome.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

• Discuss the main events in the history of Epicureanism and Stoicism
• Understand the important concepts in Epicureanism and Stoicism
• Relate Epicureanism and Stoicism to personal life choices and actions.
• Understand your own desires and motivations better.
• Relate Epicureanism and Stoicism to contemporary issues in ethics and politics.