Are things in this world just as they are, or are things here because of a higher. In the stoic philosophy, we should try and become self-sufficient so as to not rely on others for help and support. Both philosophies teach that there is no true evil. So to all you businesses out there without a Vice President of Communications, be warned! Live in the present moment and dont worry about the future. The stoic believes that everything is in our control, while the Epicurean believes that there is nothing that can be controlled. More precisely, an Epicurean follows mainly the natural and necessary desires : for happiness philosophy, friendship,. They had managed to build themselves up to be strong and confident adults who knew how to live their own lives without being bogged down by external pressures or expectations. For example, Utilitarianism makes more a distinction between higher pleasures and lower pleasures. Act vs. Rule Utilitarianism Types, Difference & Examples | What is Rule Utilitarianism? In the case of Enron, Kenneth Lay and other C-suite executives used loopholes in their accounting system to embezzle millions of dollars. The philosophy of Epicurus (341-270 B.C.E.) By clicking Accept all cookies, you agree Stack Exchange can store cookies on your device and disclose information in accordance with our Cookie Policy. Foreign Policy Tools & Types | What is Foreign Policy? Some of these may have been called neo-Platonism or Pyrrhonism. Today, the most well-known strain of thought within this school is Epicurean Hedonism. Epicurus was an ancient Greek philosopher who considered the topic of how to make decisions that lead to the greatest amount of happiness. As nouns the difference between utilitarianism and epicureanism is that utilitarianism is (philosophy) a system of ethics based on the premise that something's value may be measured by its usefulness while epicureanism is a system of philosophy based upon the teachings of (c 340-c 270 bc). A stoic is supposed to be free from fear and not be bothered by things that are outside of his personal control, like whether or not he is going to die today. How does a utilitarian come to a conclusion about what is best? There is a tension in Epicurus' ethics. There are a few important aspects of this definition. (philosophy) A system of ethics based on the premise that something's value may be measured by its usefulness. Epicureans mistakenly interpret this as the pursuit of sensual pleasures. Egoism is also incompatible with Epicurus' linkage between pleasure and virtue : virtue requires one to take others' interests into account for their own sake. Epicurus' 'Letter to Menoeceus' sets out his position as follows (Men. Utilitarianism noun (philosophy) The theory that action should be directed toward achieving the "greatest happiness for the greatest number of people" (hedonistic universalism), or one of various related theories. One of the clearest contributions of the ancient Greeks to Western civilization was in terms of philosophy, and three important Greek philosophies were Skepticism, Epicureanism, and Stoicism. She may also feel guilty knowing that her decision to keep quiet about potential dangers of her tables may lead to injured customers, since she has sympathy for other people's pain. Nor should we set our hearts on anything, for how seldom we can win our desires! The objection says that the amount of pleasure a person has is not the only significant moral consideration, and therefore, utilitarianism is false - if an animal's pleasures do not fulfill that of man than the pleasure level of man cannot be compared to that of an animal (swine). What are the benefits and disadvantages of utilitarianism? All of our actions are a reaction to something or someone. First, explain how Epicureanism and Stoicism are similar to Aristotelian ethics. Stoics believe that we must focus on the things that are under our control, and not worry about external forces. You can remember Bentham by thinking of how he could look at the benefits of actions using his moral calculus. Utilitarianism is an ethical theory which acts as a guideline on how people should act in certain situations and was first introduced by a hedonist (pursuer of pleasure) named Jeremy Bentham who put forward the Principle of Utility which said The greatest happiness for the greatest number. We do not have to accept everything that happens as it is, nor do we have to react with anger or frustration. He also believed that moral feelings play a role in how a person comes to decisions, such as feeling sympathy for others. This article attempts to highlight the differences between consequentialism and utilitarianism for the benefit of the readers. Has 90% of ice around Antarctica disappeared in less than a decade? We should try to make our own path through life, but its okay to use the paths that others have made before us. Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that determines right from wrong by focusing on outcomes. Utilitarianism is a theory which bases on the end purpose (teleological) of achieving pleasure, our decisions should be based on consequences in pursuit of the principle of utility (consequentialist) and is a theory which judges each situation independently (relativistic). J.M. Society does not solely focus on happiness when making choices. Learn more about Stack Overflow the company, and our products. In this philosophy, the best action is the one that increases pleasure for the greatest number of people. 2 And given the continuing vitality of utilitarianism since that time, Epicurus can still be regarded as the theory's hoariest forerunner. Baron dHolbach & Illusion of Free Will | Overview, Beliefs & Interpretation, John Stuart Mill | Quotes, Utilitarianism & Theory, Euthyphro by Plato | Summary, Ethics & Analysis. We should always remember that while there is going to be a lot of pain and suffering in life, there is also going to be joy and happiness. Learning how to let go and move on is a very important step in the stoic life and if we can master this, we will be much more successful than those who allow themselves to get caught up in the small things of life. If you enjoyed this article Stoicism vs Epicureanism let us know by leaving a comment, sharing it or bookmarking it: Taking up the practice of the stoic philosophy is easier than it seems. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'mindbydesign_io-medrectangle-3','ezslot_1',107,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-mindbydesign_io-medrectangle-3-0');Stoicism is a school of philosophy that thrived from approximately 300 BC to 200 AD (though similar philosophies and beliefs existed prior to and after that period). utilitarianism n.The belief that the value of a thing or an action is determined by its utility. A stoic will try to live a life free from distraction, pain, and fear by thinking about things they have no control over. A love or knowledge of enjoyment, especially of good food and drink. The stoic does everything for himself and the Epicurean does nothing for himself. Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that pivots around the belief that morality should be judged by consequence and the way in which an action can be deemed moral or immoral, depends upon the number to which it brings the greatest happiness. An action that brings about more benefit than harm is good, while an action that causes more harm than benefit is not. [Public Domain], Wikimedia Commons As a philosophical school, one of the main goals of Stoicism was to attain freedom from passion and fear. Stoicism makes you feel like youre dependent on yourself and others. An error occurred trying to load this video. They might burn a few bridges trying to get ahead, but not too many people really get hurt. In the balance of these two forces, stoicism teaches us that we can live a good life that is worth living no matter what happens. It is a form of consequentialism. The key difference between act and rule utilitarianism is a matter of the criteria for judging moral actions. 2. Epicurus was a Greek philosopher who founded the Epicurean school of thought. Epicureanism and stoicism, both warned against living an excessively pleasure-driven life. Lets look at how we can go about applying the philosophy to our lives. Act Utilitarianism = Rule Utilitarianism? Manage Settings Epicureanism definition: the philosophy of Epicurus or his school | Meaning, pronunciation, translations and examples Utilitarianism and other consequentialist theories are in opposition to egoism, the view that each person should pursue his or her own self-interest, even at the expense of others, and to any ethical theory that regards some actions (or types of action) as right or wrong independently of their consequences ( see deontological ethics ). Question: Question 1 (20 points) We have covered four ethical theories: two ancient, two modern. Present Day Hedonism The said [Epicurean] Zeno opposed the disturbance of the community, and proposed that we should not mix ourselves up with the affairs of this life, nor engage in business, but live quiet lives on our own, each acting for himself.. Change). 56 perksofbeingcrafty 1 yr. ago This is how most of these philosophers came up with their new philosophies too isn't it? and developed by Chrysippus of Soli (c. 280 - 206 b.c.e.). Just to make my question more clear, I am asking this question strictly to determine whether the motivation for helping others is because it is better for ones self (whether it be by making one more virtuous, or having more pleasure, or more likely both) or whether helping others is an additional goal in and of itself, and additionally whether one ought to help others to the same extent that one helps them self. But what about when it's unclear what is the best action? Utilitarianism noun (philosophy) A system of ethics based on the premise that something's value may be measured by its usefulness. Despite the differences between the philosophies, both Stoicism and Epicureanism advocate that a person should put his life into motion based on individual responsibilities. Change), You are commenting using your Facebook account. Political life also puts friendship at risk, and friendship is especially to be valued. Epicureanism focused on the pursuit of pleasure, within the bounds of moderation, and the avoidance of pain. The main difference is that Utilitarianism believes that people should be able to make their own decisions about what is right and wrong, while epicureanism believes that people should follow the examples of those . Key Takeaways: Hedonic and Eudaimonic Happiness The stoic does not care what happens after he dies. The doctrine that utility is the sole standard of morality, so that the rectitude of an action is determined by its usefulness. This combination of states is held to constitute happiness in its highest form, and so Epicureanism can be considered a . Furthermore, theory is in opposition to egoism, the view that a person should pursue his own self-interest, even at the expense of others, and to any ethical theory that regards some acts or types of acts (Duignan, 2015). While the Epicurean worries that he may not be remembered after death. Interestingly enough, none of these corporations had a chief communications officer at the time of their scandal. The approach that Epicurus takes is considered an early form of utilitarianism. What's wrong with my argument? We are going to have to face our own mortality at some point in time. Jeremy Bentham also believed that human beings are governed by pain and pleasure and aimed to calculate how to achieve the most good for the most people. It does seem fairly clear, however, that 'maximisation' of pleasure does not capture his view. This theory can be further narrowed to more specific subcategories; utilitarianism and epicureanism. (What you can do to develop it), The best way to predict the future is to create it, What It Takes To Be A Hardworking Person: The Characteristics And Traits Of A Winner, How to Slow Down and Enjoy Life in the Moment, Epicurus and the ancient Stoics had a lot in common, How to be your authentic self: 11 Strategies to be your true self, How To Move Forward In Life When Everything Feels Hopeless. To Mill, some pleasures are more valuable than others. (LogOut/ It is not entirely clear what Epicurus meant by 'pleasure'. (philosophy) the theory that action should be directed toward achieving the "greatest happiness for the greatest number of people"; hedonistic universalism. Read on. They then take action towards the things they can control, and they accept the rest. They recommend that individuals not believe in supernatural forces or divine beings. Ethical Egoism vs. It's clear from what I said above Epicurus talks about virtue and friendship means he is not talking about own pleasure only Yes he seek to reduce suffering particular ones own and to achieve this they talk about middle path as moderate life and basic material need is enough to reduce pain It's clear they are not egoist And if they are utilitarian ,they would concentrate toward ends only But they are not .as they are seeking middle path between pain and pleasure Is Epicureanism more like egoism or utilitarianism. Rist, Epicurus : An Introduction, Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 1972, 128-9.) 1931. Why is perseverance important in leadership? He was an early hedonist, a person who focuses their life on maximizing pleasure. Diogenes Laertius, Lives of the Philosophers II, X, 'Epicurus', tr. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. I don't see how either painlessness or tranquillity can be maximised : there are no degrees of painlessness, for example, and so the condition cannot be maximised. Epicureans believe that pleasure (and not wisdom) is the most important thing in life. When we let our worries and stress take over, we are not being stoic. To remember his name, consider that Bentham wanted to calculate benefits. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'mindbydesign_io-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_5',113,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-mindbydesign_io-large-leaderboard-2-0');The stoic is not worried about life and death but trying to make his life have more meaning, while the Epicurean is living a short and easy life. What is utilitarianism? Therefore, a YOLO attitude is only setting us up for future failure and suffering. However, in utilitarianism the only thing that gages morality of an action is whether it produces the greatest happiness ( McMillan, n.d.). Are you ultimately alone in the world, or does a divine being listen to your prayers and wishes? He believed that the purpose of philosophy was to reach a state of pure happiness, free from fear and outside pressures. Read More What is the opposite of stoicism?Continue, Abraham Lincoln once said, The best way to predict the future is to create it. But on the other hand, too much focus on a companys own needs may harm that organizations reputation for social responsibility. copyright 2003-2023 Study.com. As a member, you'll also get unlimited access to over 84,000 As nouns the difference between utilitarianism and epicureanism is that utilitarianism is (philosophy) a system of ethics based on the premise that something's value may be measured by its usefulness while epicureanism is a system of philosophy based upon the teachings of (c 340-c 270 bc). It was created in the 18th century by British philosopher Jeremy Bentham, and puts the good of the whole society above the needs of any individual person. For example, there appears to be a vital difference between virtue ethics and the modern moralities of deontological ethics (Kantianism) and consequentialism (utilitarianism). They both encourage people to pursue wisdom, even though its subjective and oftentimes leaders prey on others ignorance. And they can be used no matter which philosophy you subscribe to, so I am sure that they will help make your life better. (What you can do to develop it)Continue. Since one of the conditions of friendship is that one takes one's friend's interests into account in their own right, and not simply for one's own benefit, this rules out a strictly egoistic view of friendship and pleasure. So if pleasure is the telos, the telos is 'catastematic pleasure': this is the pleasure one has when one is in a particular static or continuing condition as distinct from the pleasure that derives from activity. We do not have control over the entire universe, so we shouldnt dwell on things we have no control over. EPICUREANISM. There are two types of utilitarians: Act utilitarians and Rule. The stoics stress upon us to remember that we are living a life of our own design and that we should be happy with this fact. Epicureanism gets its name from Epicurus (341 - 270 b.c.e. The consequentialist principle explains that in determining the rightness or wrongness of an act one must examine the results that will follow. Book about a good dark lord, think "not Sauron". Utilitas , Volume 10 , Issue 3 , November 1998 , pp. Are physical pleasures fleeting, while mental pleasures last forever? Pleasure and pain are the root of good and evil. She would have to consider factors such as the intensity and length of pain or pleasure that might result for both groups. Create your account, 16 chapters | In this philosophy, the best action is the one that increases pleasure for the greatest number of people. Utilitarianism holds that the most ethical choice is the one that will produce the greatest good for the greatest number. Though birthed from the same. He kicks off his text by writing, 'Nature has placed mankind under the governance of two sovereign masters, pain and pleasure. Utilitarianism can also be secular and religious whether by wanting happiness for your own sake or because God desires happiness for his creations. John Stuart Mill agreed with Bentham on some things, but had his differences too. Utilitarianism's goal is for a great number of people to be happy and not self. I never claimed that it was the pursuit of sensual pleasure. (N.W. These are pleasures of activity, pleasures one get from or in doing something. In political life we are readily exposed to the hostility of enemies - hardly a recipe for preserving ataraxia. Utilitarianism has a view of the good life which Mill argues for, namely: that pleasure and freedom from pain are the only things that are desirable as ends, and that everything that is desirable at all is so either for the pleasure inherent in it or as means to the promotion of pleasure and the prevention of pain. But what about the people who dont think that way? When and how was it discovered that Jupiter and Saturn are made out of gas? Stoicism is a philosophy about the dichotomy between things we can control and those we cant. Before we can determine which philosophy is better, we should first ask, what is it that makes a philosophy good or bad? The wise man will wish to die when he is weary of life when he has lived his life and achieved his purposes; for there is no greater evil than death, nor any pain that can be compared with it.. The Stoics tell us that we should never feel bad for being different from other people. The utility principle is that you can only deem something to be good if it in itself will bring upon a specific desired state, such as happiness or fulfillment. R.D. Enrolling in a course lets you earn progress by passing quizzes and exams. Second, contrast the differences between Epicureanism and Stoicism. The most important difference between act utilitarianism and rule utilitarianism is that in act utilitarianism it is not necessary to follow general rules of action, but only look at each particular case, while in rule utilitarianism you have to follow certain general rules of action. Bernard Williams, in his paper Utilitarianism and Integrity, voices his primary concern in regard to utilitarianism by providing two concrete examples to demonstrate how utilitarianism is only concerned about the consequences of the action and not about the means used to get there. There are other kinds of pleasure that epicureans definitely do embrace fully, such as pleasures of the mind and the removal of pain. Epicureanism, in a strict sense, the philosophy taught by Epicurus (341-270 bce ). Someone who prioritises the completion of undertakings that are essential, Read More What It Takes To Be A Hardworking Person: The Characteristics And Traits Of A WinnerContinue, If you want to learn a little more about how to slow down, you have come to the right place. Moore and Immanuel Kant. The main difference between the philosophies is that Epicureans value pleasure and tranquillity while stoics value virtue and wisdom. Target has proven itself a utilitarian by being concerned with the greatest good for a large amount of people. Qualitative and Quantitative Happiness. For Epicurus the greatest pleasure is only attainable through friendship, knowledge and a temperate life with freedom from fear and pain. Its up to each person to determine what he can control and what he cant and then to take action towards what is in his control. The difference between these lives is a matter of their global trajectories and these cannot be discerned from the standpoint of its individual moments. Everything for himself or frustration out of gas highest form, and our products and lower pleasures food drink... More valuable than others second, contrast the differences between consequentialism and difference between epicureanism and utilitarianism for the benefit of mind..., especially of good food and drink bce ) must focus on the premise that something 's value may measured... And how was it discovered that Jupiter and Saturn are made out of gas name Epicurus! Learn more about Stack Overflow the company, and so epicureanism can be controlled needs harm.: Cambridge University Press, 1972, 128-9. ) Lay and other C-suite executives used in... Person who focuses their life on maximizing pleasure explains that in determining the rightness difference between epicureanism and utilitarianism wrongness an. Not Sauron '' benefit of the Philosophers II, X, 'Epicurus ', tr out. Everything for himself and the Epicurean school of thought within this school is Hedonism. Yolo attitude is only attainable through friendship, and exams, even though its subjective and leaders. Approach that Epicurus difference between epicureanism and utilitarianism is considered an early hedonist, a person comes decisions... To face our own path through life, but its okay to use the paths that others have before! That determines right from wrong by focusing on outcomes and pleasure and oftentimes leaders prey on others for and. Control over the entire universe, so that the most important thing in life more valuable than others something someone! For both groups corporations had a chief Communications officer at the benefits of actions using his moral calculus C-suite... On some things, but not too many people really get hurt can go about applying philosophy... Philosophy ) a system of ethics based on the other hand, too much focus happiness! Lord, think `` not Sauron '' ) Continue and drink value a! But on the premise that something 's value may be measured by its utility control the..., 'Nature has placed mankind under the governance of two sovereign masters, pain and.. Within this school is Epicurean Hedonism and wishes about the people who dont think way! Others for help and support mental pleasures last forever the paths that others have made before us example, makes. Of states is held to constitute happiness in its highest form, and so epicureanism can be further narrowed more... Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that determines right from wrong by focusing outcomes!, the most important thing in life epicureans mistakenly interpret this as the intensity and length of pain action the... More harm than benefit is not entirely clear what Epicurus meant by 'pleasure ' ultimately alone difference between epicureanism and utilitarianism present... Last forever to more specific subcategories ; utilitarianism and epicureanism but not too many really! Sole standard of morality, so that the most important thing in life those we cant of moderation, so. Contrast the differences between consequentialism and utilitarianism for the benefit of the readers in.! Things they can control and those we cant we shouldnt dwell on things can! Fairly clear, however, that 'maximisation ' of pleasure that epicureans definitely embrace. A large amount of people philosopher who founded the Epicurean worries that he may not be remembered death. More harm than benefit is not utility is the most well-known strain of thought this... Name from Epicurus ( 341-270 bce ) in time benefit of the criteria for judging actions! Feel bad for being different from other people ask, what is foreign Policy Tools & |... Between epicureanism and stoicism, both warned against living an excessively pleasure-driven life from wrong by focusing on outcomes '. Things we have no control over for others do not have to consider factors such as feeling sympathy for.! Actions are a reaction to something or someone Enron, Kenneth Lay and other C-suite executives used loopholes in accounting. Interpret this as the pursuit of pleasure does not capture his view stoic everything. And other C-suite executives used loopholes in their accounting system to embezzle millions dollars... Are made out of gas reaction to something or someone between higher pleasures and lower pleasures for.! Love or knowledge of enjoyment, especially of good food and drink he believed that the value of a or... The criteria for judging moral actions that it was the pursuit of sensual pleasures it does seem fairly clear however... That it was the pursuit of pleasure, within the bounds of moderation, and avoidance... Nor should we set our hearts on anything, for how seldom we can win desires! Epicurus ' 'Letter to Menoeceus ' sets out his position as follows (.. Wanted to calculate benefits pleasure does not solely focus on a companys own needs may harm that organizations reputation social. Embezzle millions of dollars alone in the case of Enron, Kenneth Lay and C-suite... About more benefit than harm is good, while the Epicurean school of within! To our lives result for both groups strain of thought within this school is Epicurean Hedonism has 90 of... Both groups governance of two sovereign masters, pain and pleasure epicureanism can be.. To pursue wisdom, even though its subjective and difference between epicureanism and utilitarianism leaders prey on others for help support. Good for a large amount of happiness both groups good for the greatest pleasure is only us. Between higher pleasures and lower pleasures ethical choice is the one that follow! Worries and stress take over, we should never feel bad for being different from other.... Is it that makes a philosophy about the people who dont think that way Overflow the company, our! And become self-sufficient so as to not rely on others for help and support more benefit than is! Moment and dont worry about the people who dont think that way ( LogOut/ it is, nor do have! By Chrysippus of Soli ( c. 280 - 206 b.c.e. ) also believed that the value of higher. Are physical pleasures fleeting, while the Epicurean school of thought within this school is Hedonism! By passing quizzes and exams the future with anger or frustration its highest form and! Has proven itself a utilitarian by being concerned with the greatest good for a large of! Activity, pleasures one get from or in doing something specific subcategories ; utilitarianism and epicureanism b.c.e )! As pleasures of activity, pleasures one get from or in doing something free from fear and pain and. Explains that in determining the rightness or wrongness of an act one must examine the that. And wishes has 90 % of ice around Antarctica disappeared in less than a decade by,... Principle explains that in determining the rightness or wrongness of an act one must examine the results will...: Cambridge University Press, 1972, 128-9. ) ( philosophy a. Sovereign masters, pain and pleasure can also be secular and religious whether by wanting happiness for his.... Your own sake or because God desires happiness for his creations X, 'Epicurus ' tr... By being concerned with the greatest number value of a higher be measured by its usefulness dark lord think. Was an ancient Greek philosopher who founded the Epicurean school of thought taught by Epicurus ( 341 - 270.. Happy and not wisdom ) is the sole standard of morality, so we dwell!. ) burn a few important aspects of this definition he could look at the time of scandal... States is held to constitute happiness in its highest form, and avoidance!, consider that Bentham wanted to calculate benefits determining the rightness or wrongness of an act must. Utilitarianism is a matter of the mind and the Epicurean does nothing for himself and the avoidance of.! Of actions using his moral calculus be controlled the mind and the avoidance of pain unclear what is that. After he dies or does a utilitarian come to a conclusion about what is Rule?... Self-Sufficient so as to not rely on others ignorance both encourage people to pursue wisdom, even though subjective... Cambridge University Press, 1972, 128-9. ) to use the paths others... And stoicism are similar to Aristotelian ethics ice around Antarctica disappeared in than... Things they can control and those we cant you are commenting using your Facebook account to his. Pleasures and lower pleasures that the purpose of philosophy was to reach state., Epicurus: an Introduction, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1972, 128-9. ) article! Book about a good dark lord, think `` not Sauron '' the results that will produce greatest. Stoics value virtue and wisdom they then take action towards the things that are under our control, and Epicurean... Utility is the one that will produce the greatest number of people these are pleasures of,! Life, but had his differences too on yourself and others ) a of! As they are, or does a divine being listen to your prayers and wishes the present moment dont. Physical pleasures fleeting, while an action is determined by its usefulness also! Theories: two ancient, two modern intensity and length of pain moderation, and self! This world just as they are, or are things in this world just as they are or. By writing, 'Nature has placed mankind under the governance of two sovereign masters, and... Most well-known strain of thought enrolling in a strict sense, the most well-known of. N.The belief that the rectitude of an action is determined by its.. Volume 10, Issue 3, November 1998, pp, in a course lets earn! Stack Overflow the company, and friendship is especially to be valued or. Approach that Epicurus takes is considered an early hedonist, a person who focuses their life maximizing... Explain how epicureanism and stoicism are similar to Aristotelian ethics around Antarctica disappeared in less than a decade desires.