Ancient Philosophy · Early works to 1800 · Happiness
The Art of Happiness by Epicurus — Summary, Key Ideas & Quotes
199380 pages✦ 3-min Big ideas
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What is The Art of Happiness about?
This little book takes on a big subject, offering enduring guidelines from the Greek philosopher Epicurus for achieving lasting happiness. Based on a new translation of Epicurus to Menoecceus and complete with original Greek text, the work expounds upon basic philosophical inquiries--concerning pleasure, longevity, death, and desire--that are as relevant today as they were in ancient Greece.
A glimpse inside
Pleasure as the Foundation of Happiness
Epicurus famously argued that pleasure is the highest good and the natural aim of life. However, he redefines pleasure not as indulgence, but as the absence of pain and disturbance. For Epicurus, true happiness comes from satisfying our basic needs and cultivating a state of calm rather than chasing fleeting or extravagant pleasures. This nuanced understanding sets his philosophy apart from hedonism, emphasizing moderation and self-awareness.
Managing Desires
A core teaching in The Art of Happiness is the distinction between natural and necessary desires (such as food, shelter, friendship), natural but unnecessary desires (luxuries), and vain or empty desires (power, fame). Epicurus counsels that happiness is achieved by focusing on the first category and learning to let go of the rest. By recognizing which desires truly serve us and which lead to anxiety, we can simplify our lives and reduce suffering.
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Get smart in 3 min
6 key ideas, distilled
- 1Pleasure as the Foundation of Happiness
- 2Managing Desires
- 3The Fear of Death
- 4The Value of Friendship
- 5Living Simply
Popular quotes from The Art of Happiness
“Death is nothing to us.”
“Of all the things which wisdom provides to make us entirely happy, much the greatest is the possession of friendship.”
“Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not.”
Frequently asked
This little book takes on a big subject, offering enduring guidelines from the Greek philosopher Epicurus for achieving lasting happiness. Based on a new translation of Epicurus to Menoecceus and complete with original Greek text, the work expounds upon basic philosophical inquiries--concerning pleasure, longevity, death, and desire--that are as relevant today as they were in ancient Greece.