Tag: #Hellenistic Philosophy

Ancient

Zeno (Stoic): 'Live According to Nature' — The Philosopher Who Accepted Fate and Held Virtue Alone to Be Good

Zeno of Citium made 'living in accordance with nature' the foundational principle of ethics and founded Stoic philosophy, which holds virtue alone to be good. His thought passed through the Roman Empire to influence modern ethics and cognitive behavioural therapy.

Ancient

Epicurus: 'Pleasure Is the Beginning and End of the Good' — The Philosopher Who Dispelled Fear and Taught the Gentle Life

Epicurus inherited Democritus's atomism while placing 'pleasure' as the criterion of the good, and founded a philosophy that dispels the fear of death and dread of the gods. His thought connects deeply to modern science, utilitarianism, and existential inquiry.

Ancient

Diogenes: 'Deface the Currency' — The Dog Philosopher Who Gave Civilization the Finger

Diogenes lived in a storage jar, held up a lantern in broad daylight and said 'I am looking for a human being.' He stripped away property, honor, and shame, proving through his body alone that philosophy is a way of life.