Epicurus

341 - 270 Ancient History Greek

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Biographical Core

Epicurus (341–270 BCE), born in Samos to Athenian parents, founded Epicureanism in Athens after studying under Nausiphanes and teaching in Mytilene and Lampsacus. He established 'the Garden,' a philosophical school emphasizing atomistic materialism, empiricist epistemology, and hedonism as the pursuit of pleasure through absence of pain and mental tranquility (ataraxia). Rejecting fears of death and gods' intervention, he advocated simple living, friendship, and avoidance of politics, influencing views on nature, society, and happiness.

Debate Topology Note