Thoughts on the Epicurean Revival

The modern revival of Epicureanism should be practiced as a philosophy not as a religion. There is no need for faith or symbolic rituals to embolden the empirical understanding of this philosophy. One studies and implements this philosophy to directly and personally experience the benefits of this wisdom.

While one might at times feel an intense gratitude toward the teachings and the original teacher Epicurus, there is no need to create a religion out of it. The world has seen too much harm and violence from organized religion. By maintaining the identity of a philosophical society rather than a religion, Epicurean revivalists offer a feeling of openness and freedom to those who have experienced past injury from religious fundamentalism.

Instead of the worship of a leader (be it Epicurus or a currently living guide) thorough study and practice of Epicurean principles take center stage. Each individual in the society of Epicurean friends can then become a natural ambassador of joy. There is no need for a missionary aspect to this philosophy, because those who see the benefits of this happy living will naturally be interested to learn more.

These teachings should not be turned into commodities, and teaching Epicurean philosophy should not be used as one's sole source of income. It would be fine to be reimbursed for the cost of materials such as paper or books. Freely giving the teachings without need for compensation is more conducive to the development of friendship and the development of emotional intimacy. In the act of giving we awaken the impulse to reciprocity and the basis for the commitment to longterm friendship. Since free time is precious in the modern world, Epicurean revivalists seek not to spread the teachings to the most people, but rather to spread the teachings to those who seek friendship and community within the safety and comfort of a shared worldview.

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21st Century Epicurean

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