Cynicism vs. Epicureanism Two of the prominent philosophies of the Hellenistic Age, Cynicism and Epicureanism, where fundamentally different, but both pursued a specific goal in the lives of their followers. For Cynics, that goal was the state of “Autarky” or self-sufficiency. For the Epicureans the goal of live was a desire less state known as “Ataraxia”. While it can be said that both philosophies strived to reach a goal in their follower’s lives, for the most part, the similarities end there. Cynicism was a Hellenistic philosophy that denounced society and its institutions as artificial and called on the individual to strive for autarky, or the state of being free from the demands of society. The most prominent of the Cynics was Diogenes. Diogenes lived an extremely primitive lifestyle and was given the nickname Cynic which, when literally translated, means “doglike”. Diogenes was, by today’s standards, a societal outcast, or a bum. He lived by begging and proclaimed his brotherhood with not only all humans, but also all animals. In fact, the Cynics argued that nonhuman animals provided the best model for human conduct. Cynics believed that true freedom arises from realizing that if one wants nothing, then one will never lack anything, thus achieving autarky. They isolated themselves from society and denied themselves physical comforts, advocating the pursuit of virtue, or moral excellence, in accordance with a simple and unmaterialistic way of life. This particular aspect of their belief system was also similar to Epicureanism, living simple lives, but Cynics often times took it to the extreme. Not living in a house, but instead, living where ever they could find shelter. Cynics also chose to shun religion because they believed religion was an obstacle to true happiness. These principles offended a large majority of the populace so it is easy to see why the school of Cynicism had the least amount of impact on the society of the day. In contrast to the Cynics, Epicureanism made its highest goals the development of the mind and an existence free from the demands of everyday life. They called the ultimate goal the state of “Ataraxia”, translated from Greek it means calmness, or a state where one desires nothing. They thought, the best way to achieve this goal was to keep their wants simple, and thus to achieve happiness, they needed to abstain from sex and focus instead of friendship. Epicurus and his followers believed that pleasure was the greatest good, but the way to attain such pleasure was to live a modest life and gain knowledge of the workings of the world. Epicureans shunned social measurements such as fame, power and wealth which they viewed only as doorways to misery and disappointment. Another characteristic of obtaining Epicurean happiness was the freedom from fear. Epicurus taught to not be afraid of the gods, death, or the afterlife. Unlike the Cynics, Epicureans believed the gods existed, they just cared nothing for the actions of mortals, therefore, no one needed to fear what they may or may not do. As for death, again, there was nothing to fear because when the body died, the atoms of the soul simply separated from the body and united with other particles to create new things. From this doctrine arose the epitaph: (Epicurus, n.d) “I was not, I have been, I am not, I do not mind”. These principles lead Epicureans to live quiet withdrawn lives and focus more on learning than on the politics of the time. If I had to choose between the two philosophies, although neither fits my lifestyle, I would say I land closest to Epicureanism. There are several portions of the philosophy that I disagree with, but overall, a modest lifestyle is how I would describe my ideal way of life. I do not derive pleasure from over indulgence, and realize that true happiness depends on moderation and the respect and friendship of others. Where Epicurus believed in “gods”, I believe in one true God, but disagree with Epicurus that God cares nothing for humans. I believe God desires a relationship with each of us and that each of us is here for a specific purpose. So, while there are portions of his credo that I disagree with I believe it most closely aligns with my beliefs and my chosen way of life.

References
British Humanist Association, Epicurus. (n.d.)
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