Stoics, Epicureans and Sceptics by R.W. Sharples

Description

Stoics, Epicureans and Sceptics: An Introduction to Hellenistic Philosophy by R.W. Sharples offers a clear and comprehensive introduction to the major philosophical schools of thought that emerged during the Hellenistic period (approximately 323 BCE to 30 BCE), focusing on the Stoics, Epicureans, and Sceptics. These schools of philosophy played a pivotal role in shaping Western thought, particularly with their approaches to ethics, human nature, and the search for happiness. Sharples' work provides an accessible overview of the key ideas, principles, and influential figures of each of these schools. The book discusses how these philosophies arose in the context of the political instability and social change following the death of Alexander the Great, which led to a shift in focus from metaphysical questions to practical concerns about how to live a good life. Stoicism: The Stoic school, founded by Zeno of Citium, emphasized rationality, virtue, and self-control as the path to happiness. The Stoics believed that living in accordance with nature and reason leads to tranquility, and they advocated for indifference to external circumstances such as wealth, pleasure, and pain. Key Stoic philosophers like Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius are discussed in the book, with a focus on their views on ethics, virtue, and the role of reason in human life. Epicureanism: Epicurus founded this school of thought, which focused on achieving happiness through the pursuit of simple pleasures, friendship, and the avoidance of pain. Epicureans believed that pleasure was the ultimate good, but they emphasized intellectual pleasures over physical ones, advocating for a life of moderation and self-reflection. The book explores how Epicurean philosophy differed from Stoicism in its views on pleasure, the nature of the gods, and the importance of personal happiness. Scepticism: The Sceptics, particularly represented by Pyrrho of Elis and later academics like Arcesilaus and Carneades, questioned the possibility of certainty in knowledge. They believed that because humans are often deceived by their senses and reason, it is impossible to attain absolute knowledge. Instead of accepting dogmatic truths, Sceptics advocated for suspension of judgment (epoché) and a focus on achieving mental peace through the recognition of our limitations in understanding. Sharples’ book examines not only the philosophical doctrines of these schools but also their historical context and the influence they had on later thinkers, including their impact on Roman philosophy and the development of early Christian thought. The book also addresses the differences and similarities between these schools, comparing their ethical teachings and their views on human nature, happiness, and the cosmos. In summary, Stoics, Epicureans and Sceptics provides an insightful and well-rounded introduction to Hellenistic philosophy, making it an invaluable resource for students and anyone interested in the intellectual history of the ancient world and the development of ethical thought.