Epicureanism | Definition, History, Examples, & Facts | Britannica

History of Epicureanism

Epicurus’s predecessors were in physics Leucippus and Democritus and in ethics Antiphon Sophista, Aristippus of Cyrene, and Eudoxus of Cnidus, a geometer and astronomer. Epicurus differed from all of these in his systematic spirit and in the unity that he tried to give to every part of philosophy. In this respect, he was greatly influenced by the philosophy and teachings of Aristotle—taking over the essentials of his doctrines and pursuing the problems that he posed.

Epicurus’s teachings

In 306 bce, Epicurus established his school at Athens in his garden, from which it came to be known as The Garden.

Key People: Lucretius (Show more) Related Topics: philosophy pleasure (Show more) On the Web: ResearchOnline at ND - Epicureanism: The Pursuit of Eudemonia (PDF) (Dec. 19, 2025) (Show more) See all related content

His works

In accordance with the goal that he assigned to philosophy, Epicurus’s teaching had a dogmatic character, in substance if not in form. He called his treatises dialogismoi, or “conversations.” Since the utility of the doctrines lay in their application, he summarized them in stoicheia, or “elementary propositions,” to be memorized. In this respect, Epicurus was the inventor of the catechetical method. The number of works produced by Epicurus and his disciples reveals an impressive theoretical activity. But no less important was the practical action in living by the virtues taught by him and in honouring the obligations of reciprocal help in the name of friendship. In these endeavours, continuous assistance was rendered by Epicurus himself, who, even when old and ill, was occupied in writing letters of admonishment, guidance, and comfort—everywhere announcing his gospel of peace and, under the name of pleasure, inviting to love.

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