Epictetus And Epicurus Vs. Nietzsche - 793 Words

Halle Kopper Period 5 Epictetus Epicurus vs. Nietzsche Both Epictetus and Epicurus agree that in order to live the best life possible, it is necessary to reduce human desires. Epicurus argued that if a person can reduce human desires and live a good life â€Å"you will live as a god among men†, similarly, Epictetus says that only this good life is one that is â€Å"free†. On the other hand, Friedrich Nietzsche criticizes traditional and Christian morality as being â€Å"hostile to life†. Epictetus’ principle philosophy is based on his concept that â€Å"wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants† and to â€Å"seek not the good in external things; seek it in yourselves†. Based off of this central ideal, Epictetus also stated that â€Å"there is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will†. Likewise, Epicurus’ central philosophy was â€Å"do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for†. In relation to this, he also stated that â€Å"the wealth required by nature is limited and is easy to procure; but the wealth required by vain ideals extends to infinity†. Both Epictetus and Epicurus stress the traditional morality that less physical wealth will lead to a greater mental wealth and by association, a better life. On the contrary, Nietzsche’s moral philosophy is mainly critical of morality. He criticizes morality for holding people