On Attaining the Epicurean Ataraxia Being viewed as the key to authentic happiness in Epicurean philosophy, ataraxia is the tranquil state of mind freed from any pain, fear and disturbances that gives rise to our katastematic(still) pleasures. In particular, this essay will argue that the Epicurean ataraxia could be achieved by fearlessness, self-sufficiency and living a private life with friends. Each of the three points of my thesis will structure as an individual section, containing within the main arguments followed by criticisms and rebuttal.

I. Fearlessness The elimination of fear and mental uncertainty is crucial to attaining the peace of mind. As Hibler has stated, Epicurus "narrow[s] inquiry to things people need answers for questions that cause them fear"; in fact, …show more content…
If we can reason out what our life is capable of and detach ourselves from the fear of death, we can eliminate the desire for eternity and attain tranquility. On the other hand, the presence of bodily pain can also significantly undermine our katastematic pleasure. However, Epicurus argues that we have the capacity to maintain ataraxia even in the uncontrollable in-stances of injuries and sickness. Along with his infamous saying “short if it’s severe, light if it’s long” (PD 4), Epicurus suggests that we can counter pain with extremely pleasant memories and engage in favourable activities that are still available to us(Cicero, On Ends II 96). While Epicurus is on his deathbed, the recollection of fond memories with friends in the garden alleviate his discomfort and enable him to remain peaceful till his last moments (Cooper 244). In addition, fearlessness is accompanied by the virtue of justice and courage. Epicurus has stated that “the unjust life is full of the greatest disturbances”, in the sense that if one